In today’s construction industry, precision and efficiency are not just advantages — they are necessities. From residential builders to multinational contractors, every firm faces the challenge of rising material costs, tight deadlines, and increasing competition. One of the most powerful ways companies are addressing these challenges is through construction estimating software.
Gone are the days when contractors relied solely on spreadsheets or manual calculations. These traditional methods, while familiar, are often prone to human error, take significant time, and lack the flexibility needed for modern projects. With digital solutions, estimates can now be generated in minutes, takeoffs can be completed directly from blueprints, and collaboration across teams has never been easier.
The global construction estimating software market is expected to grow steadily in 2025, fueled by demand for automation, cloud collaboration, and integration with accounting systems. These tools not only ensure accurate estimates but also give contractors a competitive edge when bidding for projects.
If you’re considering upgrading your process, here are the top 5 construction estimating software platforms in 2025:
ProEst
Buildxact
STACK
PlanSwift
Sage Estimating
Let’s explore each in detail.
ProEst
Best for: Large firms and enterprises
ProEst has earned its place as one of the most robust estimating platforms in the industry. Its cloud-first design ensures that teams can collaborate on estimates in real time, regardless of location. Whether you’re bidding on commercial high-rises or public infrastructure, ProEst streamlines complex estimating tasks.
Key Features
- Cloud-based access from anywhere, anytime
- Digital takeoffs directly from project plans
- Centralized cost database with customizable assemblies
- Seamless integration with Procore, Viewpoint, and Autodesk
- Proposal and bid management tools
Pros
- Scalable for large and complex projects
- Enhances teamwork with cloud collaboration
- Automates repetitive estimating processes
- Trusted by enterprise-level contractors worldwide
Cons
- Higher price point compared to small-business solutions
- May feel overwhelming for very small contractors
Pricing
ProEst does not publicly list pricing, but most enterprise clients report costs starting at $5,000–$10,000 per year, depending on features and users.
???? Who should use it?
ProEst is best for mid-to-large construction firms that need enterprise-level tools and real-time collaboration across multiple departments.
Buildxact
Best for: Small to mid-sized builders and remodelers
If you’re a smaller contractor or residential builder, Buildxact is an excellent option. It combines estimating with project management and client communication, making it an all-in-one solution for those who don’t want separate platforms.
Key Features
- Easy-to-use digital takeoffs
- Pre-built templates for quick estimates
- Cost tracking and invoicing
- Scheduling tools for project management
- Integrations with QuickBooks, Xero, and MYOB
Pros
- Affordable and beginner-friendly
- Saves time with ready-to-use cost libraries
- Improves client relationships with transparent quotes
- Offers both estimating and job management in one platform
Cons
- Limited functionality for very large-scale projects
- Cloud-only (may not suit firms preferring offline tools)
Pricing
Buildxact pricing starts at around $159/month per user, making it one of the most affordable professional-grade tools.
???? Who should use it?
Perfect for residential builders, remodelers, and small contractors who want an easy-to-learn, budget-friendly estimating and project management solution.
STACK
Best for: Digital takeoffs and team collaboration
STACK is a favorite among subcontractors and general contractors for its cloud-native takeoff and estimating capabilities. Known for its speed and accuracy, STACK allows contractors to upload blueprints, mark up plans, and generate precise estimates in record time.
Key Features
- Cloud-based digital takeoffs
- Real-time collaboration for teams and subcontractors
- Pre-built databases for materials and labor
- Integrates with Procore, Autodesk, and other PM tools
- Unlimited projects and users in most pricing tiers
Pros
- Extremely fast takeoffs and estimates
- Great for teams spread across different locations
- Flexible integrations for full workflow management
- Scalable for both small and mid-sized contractors
Cons
- Learning curve for advanced features
- Internet connectivity required at all times
Pricing
STACK offers a free plan for basic use. Paid plans start at around $1,999/year per user for contractors who need advanced functionality.
???? Who should use it?
Ideal for subcontractors and general contractors looking for cloud collaboration and fast takeoffs from digital plans.
PlanSwift
Best for: Contractors who prefer desktop/offline tools
Unlike fully cloud-based solutions, PlanSwift is a hybrid platform with a strong on-premise version. This makes it appealing for contractors who need offline access but still want modern digital takeoffs and estimating functions.
Key Features
- Drag-and-drop measurement tools
- Supports area, linear, volume, and count takeoffs
- Integration with Microsoft Excel for custom estimates
- Customizable material and labor assemblies
- Plugins for specialized trades (electrical, flooring, painting, etc.)
Pros
- Affordable one-time licensing model
- Works offline without internet dependency
- Highly customizable with plugins
- Simple learning curve
Cons
- Lacks some advanced cloud collaboration features
- Interface can feel outdated compared to competitors
Pricing
PlanSwift typically costs $1,749 for a lifetime license, with optional annual support fees.
???? Who should use it?
PlanSwift is perfect for contractors and tradespeople who want an affordable, offline-friendly tool with the option to integrate estimates into Excel.
Sage Estimating
Best for: Enterprise contractors with ERP integration needs
Sage Estimating is a powerhouse solution designed for large firms that already use Sage’s accounting and ERP systems. It provides deep functionality for highly detailed cost structures and large-scale bids.
Key Features
- Pre-populated cost databases
- Advanced reporting and forecasting
- Integration with Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate (CRE)
- Multi-user access with role-based permissions
- Handles complex, multi-phase projects
Pros
- Unmatched integration with Sage ERP/accounting
- Reliable for enterprise-level contractors
- Provides granular control over costs
- Built for large-scale projects with many variables
Cons
- Expensive compared to most solutions
- Requires significant training and onboarding
Pricing
Sage Estimating is quote-based, but enterprise deployments often cost $10,000–$20,000+ annually.
???? Who should use it?
Large firms with existing Sage ERP systems that require powerful, integrated estimating capabilities.
Comparison of the Top 5
| Software | Best For | Key Strengths | Deployment | Price Range |
| ProEst | Large firms & enterprises | Cloud collaboration, scalability | Cloud-based | $$$ |
| Buildxact | Small to mid-sized builders | Affordable, all-in-one estimating + PM | Cloud-based | $$ |
| STACK | Subcontractors & GCs | Fast digital takeoffs, collaboration | Cloud-based | $$-$$$ |
| PlanSwift | Offline-preferring contractors | Desktop use, Excel integration | On-premise | $$ |
| Sage Estimating | Enterprise contractors w/ ERP | ERP integration, advanced estimates | On-premise/Cloud | $$$$ |
Future Trends in Construction Estimating Software
Looking ahead, estimating software is evolving beyond just numbers. Expect to see:
- AI-powered estimates: Machine learning will analyze past project data to generate even more accurate cost predictions.
- Integration with BIM (Building Information Modeling): Estimating software will pull real-time cost data directly from BIM models.
- Mobile-first solutions: Contractors will increasingly complete estimates and takeoffs directly from tablets or smartphones on-site.
- Sustainability-focused estimating: Tools will factor in environmental impact and green material options for eco-conscious clients.
These innovations will further reduce human error, improve efficiency, and make construction bidding more competitive than ever.
Conclusion
Choosing the right construction estimating software depends on your company size, budget, and project needs:
- ProEst and Sage Estimating are best for enterprise contractors managing complex projects.
- Buildxact is ideal for small to mid-sized residential builders needing affordability and simplicity.
- STACK shines for contractors who prioritize cloud collaboration and fast digital takeoffs.
- PlanSwift is perfect for those who prefer desktop/offline estimating with Excel flexibility.
By investing in the right solution, construction firms can improve accuracy, streamline workflows, and gain a strong advantage in today’s competitive market.
