Estimating costs is a big part of any construction task. Whether you’re a contractor, builder, or DIY enthusiast, having the proper tools can make a significant difference. That’s where construction estimating software program comes in. These programs assist you create correct estimates, track expenses, and manage budgets.
We’ll explore the 12 best construction estimating software options for 2025. Each of these has unique features designed to help you work smarter and save time.
Let’s dive in and find the best option for your needs!
What Is Construction Estimating?
Construction estimating is the procedure of calculating how much a construction will cost. It involves searching for materials, labor, and time needed to finish the task. Estimators break down the task into smaller elements. They give a clear picture of different costs.
This helps contractors and developers create accurate costs and budgets. Good estimating is essential because it guarantees that tasks will stay on target and within the budget. Overall, it facilitates to understand what to expect and plan accordingly.
12 Best Construction Estimating Software
There are many software are available to estimate construction costs. These software are available for contractors and experts to create their budget easily and quickly.
In this section, we’ll discuss accurate construction estimating software.
1. Archdesk
Capterra Rating: 4.8/5
G2 Rating: 4.3/5
| Basic | Premium | Custom |
| $420 | $800 | Vary |
Archdesk is a cloud-based production control software. It allows groups to control projects from start to end. You can track expenses, schedule tasks, and collaborate with your team in real-time. The archdesk is different as it combines estimating with project management. This makes it simpler to keep everything organized. This is best for teams looking for a complete solution to address all elements of their projects.
Also, you can integrate Archdesk with your spreadsheets; and import/export Excel files. You can send your estimations to the client in different formats: PDF, Google Sheets, Excel, and more.
2. Active Takeoff
Capterra Rating: 4.6/5
G2 Rating: -/5
Active Takeoff Pricing: $649.00
Active Takeoff is a specialized software for estimating costs. It measures materials and quantities from blueprints. The software program is easy to use. It has functions that let you quickly calculate expenses based on your measurements. What makes Active Takeoff stand out is its accuracy and ease. It is best for estimators who want to get estimations quickly.
Active take-off offers integration with a spreadsheet calculator. The user can import PDF files and export data to an Excel sheet.
3. PlanSwift
Capterra Rating: 4.3/5
G2 Rating: 4.3/5
PlanSwift Pricing: $1749 Annual Subscription
PlanSwift is a popular software for construction estimating and takeoffs. It allows customers to import digital blueprints and easily measures regions and materials. PlanSwift’s power lies in its flexibility. You can customize your estimates to suit specific tasks. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy for both beginners and experienced users.
PlanSwift can link to and update Excel Work Books in real-time with the software.
4. Buildpartner
Capterra Rating: 4.8/5
G2 Rating: -/5
| Starter | Standard | Pro |
| £24 | £24 | £68 |
Buildpartner is a unique software that mixes estimating and project management. It enables groups to work collectively. It provides tools for communication and collaboration. Users can create estimates and track progress in a single place. Buildpartner is different as it makes a speciality of teamwork and sharing data. This makes it perfect for contractors who want to keep their teams aligned during the project.
5. Contractor Foreman
Capterra Rating: 4.4/5
G2 Rating: 4.5/5
| Basic | Standard | Plus | Pro | Unlimited |
| $49/month | $79/month | $125/month | $166/month | $249/month |
Contractor Foreman is an all-in-one construction management software. It offers features for estimating, management, and scheduling. This software program is designed for small to medium-sized organizations. It is more affordable and simple to use than other software. It helps contractors manage more than one task without the need for expensive software.
Contractor Foreman offers the option to upload and edit Microsoft Office documents (including Excel) and edit them.
6. STACK
Capterra Rating: 4.5/5
G2 Rating: 3.9/5
| Take Off & Estimating | Field & Project Management | Property & Facility Operations |
| $1,899 /yr | $599 /yr | $599 /yr |
STACK is a cloud-based estimating software program. It allows users to create accurate estimates from digital plans. STACK stands out because of its effective takeoff capabilities. It helps you measure quickly. It also offers collaboration tools, making it easy for teams to manage finances.
STACK allows importing data through Microsoft Excel or CSV. It’s possible by uploading a file or copying and pasting data directly from a spreadsheet. If you need a software program that specializes in performance and teamwork, STACK is worth considering.
7. Procore
Capterra Rating: 4.3/5
G2 Rating: 4.2/5
Procore Pricing: custom
Procore is a famous construction management software that covers all components of a project. It includes estimating, project management, and tracking of expenses. Procore is different because it gives a comprehensive view of your projects. It helps the contractors in decision-making. It’s specifically useful for larger corporations with complex projects.
Procore can integrate with a spreadsheet calculator. The users can import a wide range of data into the system, choosing how their data is populated in various tools.
8. Expert Estimation
Capterra Rating: 5.0/5
G2 Rating: -/5
Expert Estimation Pricing: Visit website to get pricing
Expert Estimation is designed specifically for creating detailed cost estimates. It provides tools for dealing with materials, labor, and other costs. It focuses on construction-specific calculations that improve accuracy.
When it comes to integration with spreadsheet calculators, the platform gives the option to upload a saved local copy of the spreadsheet using the Save Spreadsheets button.
9. WenDuct and WenPipe
Capterra Rating: 4.5/5
G2 Rating: -/5
WenDuct and WenPipe Pricing: $5000 one time
WenDuct and WenPipe are specialized software programs for ductwork and piping estimations. This software helps customers calculate the materials and costs of HVAC and plumbing tasks.
The platform offers Microsoft Office Excel integration. Also, it can be connected to some accounting, CAD or project management systems.
10. Buildertrend
Capterra Rating: 4.5/5
G2 Rating: 4.3/5
| Essential | Advanced | Complete |
| $199/mo | $499/mo | $799/mo |
Buildertrend is a construction management software that consists of estimating features. It facilitates contractors to manage projects, communicate with customers, and track expenses. It focuses on customer relations, making it easier to keep clients informed. If you need software that enables you to build good relationships with customers, Buildertrend is the best option.
The system connects with different financial applications, which means data can be easily uploaded from Excel spreadsheets into Buildertrend.
11. ProEst
Capterra Rating: 3.6/5
G2 Rating: 4.3/5
ProEst Pricing: custom
ProEst is a cloud-based estimating software that helps you create fast and correct estimates. It includes a database of expenses, which makes it easier to pull data. ProEst is unique because it focuses closely on the estimating process. It also offers various reporting tools. This makes it appropriate for organizations that want to enhance their bidding method and win extra projects.
The platform offers automatic information transfer to save time and eliminate unintended entry mistakes.
12. Clear Estimates
Capterra Rating: 4.5/5
G2 Rating: -/5
| Standard | Pro | Franchise |
| $79 per month | $119 per month | $249 per month |
Clear Estimates is a user-friendly estimating software aimed at small businesses. It helps customers create brief estimates with templates and cost databases. Its simplicity of use makes it different from other software. It’s designed for people who may not have experience with estimating software programs.
The platform does offer the option to import from Excel. However, the process might seem more complicated for people who don’t have experience.
Conclusion
We can see that every construction estimating software has its benefits and uses. It is best to study them thoroughly before making any choice. Visit their websites for pricing. Some software also offers discounts in starting.
(FAQs)
Q1. Which is the best construction estimating software?
Ans. You can choose the best for you after evaluating all software thoroughly.
Q2. Which software is used for ductwork and piping estimations?
Ans. WenDuct and WenPipe
Q3. Which is the cheapest construction estimating software?
Ans. Contractor Foreman
