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Best Free Estimating & Takeoff Tools in 2026

Data compiled by Toolradar Updated How we rate

The 5 best free estimating & takeoff tools we track. Ordered by Toolradar's ranking score (review volume and rating on G2, Capterra, Trustpilot and other sites, plus media mentions), not by vendor pitches; every rating shows its date.

Key Takeaways
  • Stack is our free pick for estimating & takeoff in 2026, and our overall pick.
  • We screened 5 estimating & takeoff tools with a free plan to build this list.
  • 5 tools offer free plans.
Publications that cover the tools tracked here
  • TechCrunch
  • Bloomberg
  • The Information
  • Fortune
  • The Verge
  • 5 free tools screened
  • 0 100% free
  • 5 free plan + paid

Top 5 free estimating & takeoff tools at a glance

Top 5 free estimating & takeoff tools: free plan type, user rating and best use, as of November 2026
Tool Type Rating Best for
Stack Free plan 4.4 (1,504) as of Sep 2026
Cloud-based construction software accelerated with AI for faster bids and more profitable projects.
Buildxact Free plan 4.5 (249) as of Sep 2026
All-in-one software for construction professionals, from takeoff to invoice.
CostOS Estimating Free plan 4.7 (26) as of Sep 2026
Advanced estimating software for construction projects, integrating 2D, 3D, and BIM data.
Invoice Koi Free plan n/a
Create on-site estimates, capture signatures, and turn them into invoices offline
Settle Free plan n/a
Turn spoken job details into priced estimates customers can approve or pay

Ratings from G2, Capterra, and other public review sites. Each cell shows the snapshot date so a cited number is never an undated one.

Toolradar data

The estimating & takeoff tools market in numbers

Toolradar data: Toolradar tracks 16 estimating & takeoff tools as of November 5, 2026. 31% of the estimating & takeoff tools on Toolradar are free, freemium or open source. Toolradar re-checked the pricing of 75% 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 73 side-by-side comparisons. Computed from the Toolradar catalog and on-site activity.

  • 16 estimating & takeoff tools tracked
  • 31% are free, freemium or open source
  • 75% 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 Settle 11 tools
3 Stack 11 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 73
2 Stack 32
3 ConEst Software 31

Source and method: live estimating & takeoff tools statistics

The 5 best free 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.

Stack logo
1.

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.

Buildxact logo
2.

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.

CostOS Estimating logo
3.

CostOS Estimating

Free plan

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.

Invoice Koi logo
4.

Invoice Koi

Free plan

Create on-site estimates, capture signatures, and turn them into invoices offline

Invoice Koi is an invoicing app for Android phones, made for independent tradespeople and small trade businesses. Estimates are written on site from a price book of rates, signed on the phone and turned into invoices without retyping. It records deposits and part payments, reads receipts from a photo, bills time and expenses, and exports reports as CSV, spreadsheet or PDF. Drafts and PDFs work with no signal. An iPhone version is in App Store review.

Settle logo
5.

Settle

Free plan

Turn spoken job details into priced estimates customers can approve or pay

Settle is an estimate and invoice app for one-person trades: plumbers, HVAC techs, electricians, handymen, painters, pool and lawn pros. Tap the button and describe the job out loud, and Settle writes a priced, line-by-line estimate using your own prices. Text it from your own phone. Your customer approves or pays from a link, and the money goes to your own Stripe account. Free to send unlimited estimates and invoices. Pro offers unlimited AI-written drafts. iPhone only. No scheduling

Related

Why choose free estimating & takeoff tools?

Free estimating & takeoff tools are an excellent way to get started without financial commitment. Whether you're a startup, freelancer, or small business, these tools offer essential features at no cost.

What to look for in free estimating & takeoff tools

  • Feature limitations: Understand what's included in the free tier vs paid plans
  • Usage limits: Check for restrictions on users, storage, or API calls
  • Data ownership: Ensure you own your data and can export it
  • Support: Free tiers often have community-only support
  • Upgrade path: Consider future needs if you outgrow the free tier

Free vs Freemium: what's the difference?

100% free 100% free, no payment ever

Completely free with no paid upgrades available. Best for simple, focused workflows that don't require advanced features.

Free plan Free tier + paid upgrades

Generous free tier with optional paid plans that unlock advanced features, higher limits, or team collaboration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best free estimating & takeoff tool in 2026?

Stack is our free estimating & takeoff pick in 2026. Stack offers a free plan alongside paid plans: Cloud-based construction software accelerated with AI for faster bids and more profitable projects.

Is Stack really free forever?

Stack uses a freemium model: there is a permanent free tier you can use without a credit card, plus optional paid plans that unlock higher usage limits and advanced features. The free tier itself does not expire.

What does the free tier of estimating & takeoff tools typically include?

Free estimating & takeoff tools typically include the core workflow features needed to evaluate the product. Paid plans usually unlock higher usage limits, team collaboration, advanced analytics, integrations, and priority support. The specific cap differs per tool.

When should I upgrade from a free estimating & takeoff tool?

Upgrade when you hit one of the free tier ceilings: usage quota (output count, storage, contacts, projects), team size, or a paid-only feature your workflow depends on.

Are there estimating & takeoff tools that are 100% free, not just freemium?

In this category most options use a freemium model: a permanent free tier with optional paid upgrades. Stack, Buildxact, CostOS Estimating all offer generous free plans you can use indefinitely without paying.

Are free estimating & takeoff tools good enough for business use?

Yes, for most startups, freelancers, and small teams. Stack and Buildxact both offer free tiers robust enough for production workflows. Larger teams typically upgrade when they need SSO, audit logs, advanced permissions, or usage past the free quota.

Last updated: November 3, 2026

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