Skip to content

Ranked list

Best Estimating & Takeoff Tools in 2026

Data compiled by Toolradar Updated How we rate

Construction estimating software

Key Takeaways
  • Stack is our overall pick for estimating & takeoff in 2026, and our free pick. Overall and free pick: Free plan; cheapest paid plan Build & Operate, $49/mo. Rated 4.4/5 across SourceForge, G2 and Capterra (1,504 ratings, Sep 2026). Watch out: Potential per-user seat minimums.
  • We evaluated 14 estimating & takeoff tools to create this ranking.
  • 3 of the 10 tools listed here have a free plan.
Publications that cover the tools tracked here
  • TechCrunch
  • Bloomberg
  • The Information
  • Fortune
  • The Verge
  • 14 tools evaluated
  • 10 top picks
  • 3 with a free plan

Top 3 estimating & takeoff tools

  1. Stack logo

    Stack

    #1 Top pick

    Cloud-based construction software accelerated with AI for faster bids and more profitable projects.

    Starting price

    From $49 /mo

    Cheapest paid plan, monthly, as of October 2026

    4.4 /5 across SourceForge, G2 and Capterra · 1,504 ratings, Sep 2026

    Our take

    Best overall

  2. HCSS logo

    HCSS

    #2

    Powering every phase of the construction project lifecycle from bid to closeout.

    Pricing

    Contact sales

    4.6 /5 on G2 · 264 ratings, Sep 2026

  3. Buildxact logo

    All-in-one software for construction professionals, from takeoff to invoice.

    Pricing

    Free plan

    4.5 /5 across G2 and Capterra · 249 ratings, Sep 2026

10 top estimating & takeoff tools compared

Estimating & takeoff tools compared on our take, starting price (cheapest paid plan, monthly, as of October 2026), average user rating with each review site's own score, and the hidden cost to watch for.
Stack logo
Stack
Best overall Price: $49/mo 4.4 out of 5, from 1,504 ratings across SourceForge, G2 and Capterra Capterra 4.5 · G2 4.5 Watch out: Potential per-user seat minimums
HCSS logo
HCSS
Price: Contact sales 4.6 out of 5, from 264 ratings on G2 G2 4.6 Watch out: Per-user license minimums
Buildxact logo
Buildxact
Price: Free + paid 4.5 out of 5, from 249 ratings across G2 and Capterra Capterra 4.6 · G2 4.3
SmartBid logo
SmartBid
Price: Not published 4.4 out of 5, from 102 ratings across G2 and Capterra Capterra 4.4 · G2 4.4
ConstructConnect logo
ConstructConnect
Price: $100/mo 3.5 out of 5, from 147 ratings across G2 and Trustpilot G2 4.3 · Trustpilot 2.1
CostOS Estimating logo
CostOS Estimating
Highest rated Price: Free + paid 4.7 out of 5, from 26 ratings across G2 and Capterra Capterra 4.9 · G2 4.4
eTakeoff logo
eTakeoff
Price: $66.25/mo 4.7 out of 5, from 5 ratings on G2 G2 4.7 Watch out: Togal.ai add-on is a significant extra cost.
ArcSite logo
ArcSite
Most affordable Price: $14.99/mo Rating: n/a
ConEst Software logo
ConEst Software
Price: Not published Rating: n/a
Easy Takeoffs logo
Easy Takeoffs
Price: $33.25/mo Rating: n/a

Estimating & Takeoff pricing compared

Estimating & Takeoff pricing, as of October 2026
Stack Cheapest paid plan: Build & Operate, $49/mo Free plan: Yes Billing: Per user, billed monthly
HCSS Cheapest paid plan: Not published Free plan: No Billing: Not published
Buildxact Cheapest paid plan: Not published Free plan: Yes Billing: Not published
SmartBid Cheapest paid plan: Not published Free plan: No Billing: Not published
ConstructConnect Cheapest paid plan: Starter (Per Seat/Year), $100/mo (billed yearly) Free plan: No Billing: Per user, billed yearly
CostOS Estimating Cheapest paid plan: Not published Free plan: Yes Billing: Not published
eTakeoff Cheapest paid plan: AdvancedSubscription, $66.25/mo (billed yearly) Free plan: No Billing: Per user, billed yearly
ArcSite Cheapest paid plan: Draw Basic, $14.99/mo Free plan: No Billing: Billed monthly
ConEst Software Cheapest paid plan: Not published Free plan: No Billing: Not published
Easy Takeoffs Cheapest paid plan: Pro Annual, $33.25/mo (billed yearly) Free plan: No Billing: Billed yearly

Toolradar pricing data, last verified October 2026. Prices are the cheapest paid plan converted to a monthly figure; "Not published" means the vendor publishes no price for a self-serve paid plan. 5 of 10 tools publish a paid price; median cheapest paid plan $49/mo.

Toolradar data

The estimating & takeoff tools market in numbers

Toolradar data: Toolradar tracks 14 estimating & takeoff tools as of November 2, 2026. 29% of the estimating & takeoff tools on Toolradar are free, freemium or open source. Toolradar re-checked the pricing of 64% of estimating & takeoff tools in the last 90 days. Toolradar aggregates 2,301 public user reviews (G2, Capterra, Trustpilot and other review sites) across 8 rated estimating & takeoff tools. The most cross-shopped estimating & takeoff tool is HCSS, listed as an alternative to 15 other tools on Toolradar. The most compared estimating & takeoff tool on Toolradar over the last 90 days is HCSS, with 72 side-by-side comparisons. Computed from the Toolradar catalog and on-site activity.

  • 14 estimating & takeoff tools tracked
  • 29% are free, freemium or open source
  • 64% of prices re-checked in the last 90 days
  • 2,301 public user reviews aggregated across 8 rated tools
Most cross-shopped estimating & takeoff tools on Toolradar, as of November 2026 Listed as an alternative to the most other tools on Toolradar
Rank Tool Listed as an alternative to
1 HCSS 15 tools
2 Stack 11 tools
3 eTakeoff 6 tools
Most compared estimating & takeoff tools on Toolradar, last 90 days to November 2026 Side-by-side comparisons by visitors, last 90 days
Rank Tool Comparisons
1 HCSS 72
2 ConEst Software 31
3 Stack 31

Source and method: live estimating & takeoff tools statistics

How the top estimating & takeoff tools compare

3 of the 10 estimating & takeoff tools listed here have a free plan (Stack, Buildxact, CostOS Estimating); the other 7 (HCSS, SmartBid, ConstructConnect, eTakeoff, ArcSite, ConEst Software, Easy Takeoffs) are paid only. Teams on a budget should start with Stack, our free pick.

Rankings are computed from G2/Capterra review volume and rating, and media mentions. Editorial policy

Top estimating & takeoff tools

Order: Toolradar ranking score, which is the public review volume times the average rating on G2, Capterra, Trustpilot and other review sites, plus media mentions (recent ones count more). Paid placements are labelled and never change the score. How we rank.

1
Stack logo

Stack

Free plan

Cloud-based construction software accelerated with AI for faster bids and more profitable projects.

4.4 /5 across SourceForge, G2 and Capterra · 1,504 ratings, Sep 2026

STACK is a cloud-based construction software solution that combines powerful automation with AI to streamline preconstruction through project closeout. It offers intuitive takeoff, estimating, building, and operating solutions designed to drive efficiency across the construction project lifecycle. The platform is built for various stakeholders including specialty contractors, general contractors, suppliers, manufacturers, owners, and developers. The software accelerates workflows, helps produce faster bids, and supports more profitable projects by providing tools for accurate takeoffs, detailed cost estimating, and streamlined document control. Its cloud-based nature enables anytime, anywhere access and real-time collaboration, while continuous innovation driven by customer feedback ensures the platform evolves to meet industry needs. STACK aims to save time, improve accuracy, and enhance communication for construction businesses of all sizes.

Used Stack? Rate it
Stack screenshot
  • Pro: Accelerates bidding and estimating processes significantly.
  • Pro: Enhances accuracy in takeoffs and cost calculations.
  • Pro: Facilitates real-time collaboration among project stakeholders.
  • Con: Requires internet connection for full functionality due to its cloud-based nature.
Fair value

It's likely best for medium to large construction companies seeking a comprehensive, AI-accelerated platform and willing to negotiate custom pricing.

Watch out

Potential per-user seat minimums

2
HCSS logo

HCSS

Paid

Powering every phase of the construction project lifecycle from bid to closeout.

4.6 /5 on G2 · 264 ratings, Sep 2026

HCSS provides a comprehensive suite of construction software solutions designed for heavy civil and infrastructure contractors of all sizes. The platform streamlines operations from the initial bidding process through project completion, offering specialized tools for estimating, project operations, fleet management, and data reporting. It aims to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and profitability by integrating various aspects of construction management into a unified system. The core offerings include HeavyBid for pre-construction and estimating, which helps contractors submit more competitive bids faster by organizing complex costs, simplifying submissions, and leveraging historical data for accurate pricing. For ongoing projects, HeavyJob provides real-time visibility into project costs, material usage, labor productivity, and equipment utilization to ensure projects stay on time and within budget. Additionally, Equipment360 optimizes fleet management through real-time data monitoring, automated maintenance scheduling, and asset utilization tracking to reduce breakdowns and operational costs. The platform also offers robust data and reporting capabilities, powered by Microsoft Power BI, to support data-driven decision-making and provide insights into business performance. HCSS is built to address the specific pain points of heavy civil construction, offering features like automated cost entry, error alerts, and customizable templates. It supports digital transformation goals through integrations with accounting and payroll applications, reducing manual data entry and improving data validation across systems. The software is hosted on secure servers, providing remote access and simplified reporting, ensuring high uptime and compliance.

Used HCSS? Rate it
HCSS screenshot
  • Pro: Significantly increases bid submission rates and accuracy.
  • Pro: Improves project budget adherence and on-time completion.
  • Pro: Reduces equipment breakdowns and optimizes fleet utilization.
  • Con: Specific pricing details are not publicly available, requiring direct contact.
  • Con: Requires initial setup and effort to customize for optimal use.

Watch out

Per-user license minimums

3
Buildxact logo

Buildxact

Free plan

All-in-one software for construction professionals, from takeoff to invoice.

4.5 /5 across G2 and Capterra · 249 ratings, Sep 2026

Buildxact is a comprehensive construction management software designed for builders and renovators. It streamlines the entire project lifecycle, from initial estimating and quoting to job management and invoicing. The platform helps users create accurate takeoffs online, connect with material suppliers for up-to-date pricing, and manage purchase orders and costs efficiently. The software aims to increase efficiency by offering faster takeoffs and a quicker quoting process, allowing construction professionals to win more work and keep projects on track. It also provides tools for client communication, ensuring projects run on time and within budget. Buildxact supports both individual builders and larger firms, offering features that simplify complex construction workflows and improve profitability.

Used Buildxact? Rate it
Buildxact screenshot
  • Pro: Significantly faster takeoffs and quoting process (up to 80% faster takeoffs, 5x quicker quoting).
  • Pro: Seamless integration from estimating to scheduling and job management.
  • Pro: Direct connection with material suppliers for accurate and up-to-date pricing.
  • Con: Specific pricing tiers and detailed feature breakdown per tier are not immediately transparent.
  • Con: Requires an internet connection for online functionality.
4
SmartBid logo

SmartBid

Paid

Streamline preconstruction bid management for general contractors worldwide.

4.4 /5 across G2 and Capterra · 102 ratings, Sep 2026

SmartBid is a leading construction bid management software designed specifically for general contractors. It provides a web-based and mobile platform to centralize and streamline bid project data, documents, and subcontractor communications during the preconstruction phase. The software aims to simplify the bidding process for prime, commercial, and residential general contractors. Key functionalities include sending invitations to bid, managing project documents through an online plan room, and maintaining a private subcontractor database. SmartBid also offers tools for prequalifying subcontractors using ConsensusDocs 721 integration and custom questionnaires. It integrates with other construction platforms like Procore, Autodesk BIM 360, and Dropbox to ensure a smooth transition from preconstruction to building and to enhance document management and network access.

Used SmartBid? Rate it
SmartBid screenshot
  • Pro: Streamlines preconstruction processes for general contractors.
  • Pro: Enhances subcontractor communication and management.
  • Pro: Offers robust integrations with industry-standard platforms.
  • Con: No free tier available for evaluation.
  • Con: Primarily focused on general contractors, potentially less suited for subcontractors directly.
5
ConstructConnect logo

Find, bid, and win commercial construction projects with industry-leading data and AI technology.

3.5 /5 across G2 and Trustpilot · 147 ratings, Sep 2026

ConstructConnect provides a comprehensive platform for commercial construction professionals, including subcontractors, general contractors, and building product manufacturers, to streamline their pre-construction processes. It offers access to the largest and most accurate database of public and private construction projects, enabling users to efficiently find relevant opportunities, manage bids, and connect with key decision-makers. The platform integrates project data, market insights, and advanced takeoff and estimating tools to help users make informed decisions and increase their win rates. With features like AI-assisted takeoffs, real-time bid updates, and a vast network of industry contacts, ConstructConnect empowers businesses to optimize their bidding strategies, improve estimation accuracy, and expand their market reach.

Used ConstructConnect? Rate it
ConstructConnect screenshot
  • Pro: Access to over 825,000 active commercial construction projects
  • Pro: Daily updates with 6,000+ project updates and 1,500 new projects
  • Pro: AI-assisted takeoff features can cut takeoff time by up to 40%
  • Con: The platform's comprehensive features might have a learning curve for new users
Fair value

ConstructConnect's pricing is fair for general contractors and subcontractors who need reliable project leads, but the Starter at $129/mo is expensive for a single-market solo operator, while the Professional at $199/mo offers strong value with AI document search.

6
CostOS Estimating logo

Advanced estimating software for construction projects, integrating 2D, 3D, and BIM data.

4.7 /5 across G2 and Capterra · 26 ratings, Sep 2026

CostOS Estimating is a comprehensive estimating solution designed for the construction industry. It enables estimators to create accurate and detailed bids by leveraging a single platform that integrates 2D drawings, 3D models, and Building Information Modeling (BIM) data. The software streamlines the entire estimating process, from takeoff and quantity surveying to cost analysis and bid generation, reducing manual effort and improving accuracy. This tool is ideal for contractors, engineering firms, and project owners who require precise cost control and efficient bid management for complex construction projects. By centralizing data and automating calculations, CostOS helps users make informed decisions, mitigate risks, and ultimately win more profitable projects. Its robust features support various project types and scales, ensuring adaptability to diverse industry needs.

Used CostOS Estimating? Rate it
  • Pro: Significantly reduces manual takeoff time through automation.
  • Pro: Improves accuracy of estimates by leveraging integrated data.
  • Pro: Provides comprehensive cost control and risk management.
  • Con: Requires initial setup and customization of cost databases.
  • Con: Learning curve for new users due to extensive features.
7
eTakeoff logo

eTakeoff

Paid

Accelerate construction takeoff and cost estimating with AI-powered digital measurement.

4.7 /5 on G2 · 5 ratings, Sep 2026

eTakeoff Dimension is an award-winning digital measuring software designed for construction estimators across all disciplines. It transforms traditional paper-based or manual takeoff methods into a fast, accurate, and highly productive electronic process. The software provides sophisticated assembly capabilities, extensive integration with Microsoft Excel, and innovative work breakdown capabilities to streamline the estimating workflow. By leveraging advanced AI technologies like SnapAI and Togal.AI, eTakeoff Dimension significantly boosts productivity and accuracy, allowing estimators to bid with confidence and increase project profitability. It caters to a wide range of users, from flooring and painting contractors to general contractors and home builders, offering solutions for various needs and budgets through its Advanced and Premier subscriptions.

Used eTakeoff? Rate it
  • Pro: Significantly increases speed and accuracy of takeoffs.
  • Pro: Boosts productivity up to 15x compared to manual methods, with further AI enhancements.
  • Pro: Offers robust multi-user functionality for collaborative projects.
  • Con: Togal.AI is an additional cost add-on.
  • Con: Pricing is per user per year, which can be costly for larger teams.
Fair value

eTakeoff's pricing, starting at $795/user/year for the AdvancedSubscription and $1,495/user/year for PremierSubscription, appears to be on the higher side compared to some market alternatives, especially considering the per-user annual model.

Watch out

Togal.ai add-on is a significant extra cost.

8
ArcSite logo

ArcSite

Paid

Mobile-first CAD for construction estimating, takeoffs, and proposals.

ArcSite is a mobile-first planning and design software designed for field professionals in construction and related industries. It enables users to create comprehensive drawings, collect measurements, gather detailed data, and generate estimates and proposals directly from a mobile device or computer. The platform supports various workflows, from initial sketches to final, branded proposals, helping teams manage projects, materials, and quotes efficiently. This tool is ideal for construction teams, individual contractors, estimators, inspectors, and designers who need to standardize visuals, streamline workflows, and improve accuracy in their field operations. It centralizes project data, allows for customization of products and pricing, and integrates with other business tools like Salesforce and ServiceTitan, ensuring clarity and consistency across all job stages and team members. ArcSite aims to reduce paperwork, accelerate sales cycles, and enhance communication through easy-to-understand visual documentation.

Used ArcSite? Rate it
  • Pro: Significantly reduces time spent on estimates and proposals in the field.
  • Pro: Enhances accuracy of measurements, material calculations, and pricing.
  • Pro: Improves team communication and consistency across projects.
  • Con: Requires adoption of a new mobile-first workflow for traditional users.
Fair value

ArcSite's pricing is on the expensive side, especially for the higher tiers.

9
ConEst Software logo

Advanced electrical estimating, takeoff, and reporting software for contractors.

ConEst Software provides comprehensive electrical estimating, takeoff, and reporting solutions designed for electrical, low voltage, datacom, and solar contractors. The core product, IntelliBid, streamlines the bidding process by offering automated estimating, a vast industry-smart database of over 140,000 material items and 500,000 NEC code-compliant assemblies, and integration with material pricing services. It aims to reduce estimating time by 50% or more while increasing accuracy. Complementing IntelliBid is SureCount, a digital takeoff software that enables onscreen counting and measuring of symbols and lengths directly from drawings. SureCount features patented auto-count technology and an overlay feature to instantly identify changes in revised drawings. The seamless integration between SureCount and IntelliBid creates an optimized workflow, allowing estimators to perform material and labor assignments during takeoff and synchronize project organization. The software is available in local PC/network installations or via CE Cloud for remote access, catering to diverse operational needs.

Used ConEst Software? Rate it
ConEst Software screenshot
  • Pro: Significantly reduces estimating time and increases accuracy.
  • Pro: Offers the largest and most customizable industry-specific database.
  • Pro: Seamless integration between takeoff and estimating modules enhances workflow.
  • Con: Requires integration with third-party pricing services for material updates.
  • Con: Specific pricing details are not publicly available, requiring a demo request.
10
Easy Takeoffs logo

Measure PDF plans and calculate material quantities with 44 included assemblies

Easy Takeoffs is easy and affordable construction takeoff software for contractors and estimators in every trade. Measure, count and mark up PDF plans, and let 44 included assemblies turn measurements into material quantities. Practical AI features like sheet naming, scale detection and symbol counting handle the busywork. Export an annotated PDF or CSV. Runs in any browser on Windows, Mac, iPad and Chromebook. Offers paid tiers, 14-day free trial, no card.

Used Easy Takeoffs? Rate it
Easy Takeoffs screenshot
Good value

This pricing is generous compared to many competitors that charge hundreds per month, making it best for individual contractors and small firms seeking a budget-friendly solution.

Why other estimating & takeoff tools didn't make our top 10

We evaluated 14 tools in this category and these 4 ranked 11 through 14. They're solid options that fell short on one or two axes (review depth, pricing transparency, feature parity), but worth a look if the leaders don't fit your stack or budget.

Popular estimating & takeoff comparisons

See how the leading estimating & takeoff tools stack up head-to-head.

Compare all 14 estimating & takeoff tools side by side

Pricing breakdowns for estimating & takeoff tools

Real plans and the hidden costs for each tool.

Best Estimating & Takeoff for

How we ranked these estimating & takeoff tools

We rank by real-world signal: G2/Capterra review volume and rating, and media mentions (volume and recency). Pricing is re-checked and the ranking refreshed monthly.

Tools evaluated
14
With free plan
29%
Last updated
October 2026

Toolradar Research

The data behind estimating & takeoff tools

First-party analyses built from our full catalog, methodology published.

All Toolradar research

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best estimating & takeoff tool in 2026?

Based on our analysis of 14 estimating & takeoff tools, Stack is our overall estimating & takeoff pick. The next tools on the list are HCSS, Buildxact, SmartBid. Rankings use G2/Capterra review volume and rating, and media mentions.

What are the top 3 estimating & takeoff tools?

The top 3 estimating & takeoff tools in 2026, ranked by Toolradar, are: 1) Stack, Cloud-based construction software accelerated with AI for faster bids and more profitable projects. 2) HCSS, Powering every phase of the construction project lifecycle from bid to closeout. 3) Buildxact, All-in-one software for construction professionals, from takeoff to invoice.

Are there free estimating & takeoff tools?

Yes. Stack is our free estimating & takeoff pick (free plan alongside paid plans). 3 of the 10 tools on this page have a free plan. Among the 14 estimating & takeoff tools we rank, 4 have a free plan.

How do I choose the right estimating & takeoff tool?

Start by defining your team size, budget, and must-have features. Stack is our overall estimating & takeoff pick. Compare all 14 options side by side on Toolradar.

Cite this page: Toolradar, "Best Estimating & Takeoff Tools in 2026", updated October 2026, https://toolradar.com/best/estimating-takeoff

Estimating & Takeoff statistics catalog size, ratings and pricing data, updated monthly

For estimating & takeoff vendors

Selling an estimating & takeoff product? Reach 930K+ buyers through Toolradar & Dupple.

Newsletter ads and directory listings: the same surfaces buyers use to shortlist. Maximum 3 sponsors per issue, native layout, no ad design needed.

Some offers on this page may be paid placements or contain affiliate links.