Desktop takeoff software
Installed on one Windows computer, often with deep assembly and estimating databases. Powerful, but tied to that machine and usually paid by annual subscription.
Takeoff software guide
Construction takeoff software: what it is and how to choose
Construction takeoff software measures quantities straight off digital plans: lengths, areas, perimeters and counts, in metric or imperial units. Instead of printing drawings and scaling them with a ruler, you upload a PDF, set the scale, and trace what you need. The totals then feed your estimate or your material order.
Updated
The main types of takeoff software
Browser-based takeoff software
Runs in a web browser on Windows or Mac with nothing to install, so the office and the laptop on site open the same job.
AI-assisted takeoff
Some tools suggest areas or counts automatically. Treat the suggestions as a first pass and check them against the plan before you price from them.
All-in-one platforms
Takeoff sits inside a larger system that also handles estimating, quotes, scheduling and invoicing. Worth it if you want to run the whole job in one place.
Five questions to choose takeoff software
Answer these before you compare feature lists.
1. Do you need takeoff only, or full estimating and job management?
If you only measure plans to price work, a focused takeoff tool is faster to learn. If you want quotes, orders and invoices in one system, look at an all-in-one platform.
2. Which computers will you use?
Desktop tools are usually Windows only. Browser-based tools work on Windows and Mac without an install.
3. Metric or imperial?
Check that the tool reads out in the units your plans and suppliers use, and that it handles the sheet sizes and scales you get.
4. How do you want to pay?
Options range from a free plan to monthly, annual or per-seat subscriptions. A free plan or trial lets you test it on a real job first.
5. Who else needs to see the measurements?
If teammates, subcontractors or clients review your quantities, check how sharing and collaboration work.
Takeoff tools compared by platform
Platform and how you pay only. Prices change and differ by country, so check each vendor's site.
| Tool | Platform | How you pay |
|---|---|---|
| MetreMate | Any modern browser on Windows or Mac | Free plan, then monthly or annual |
| Bluebeam Revu | Windows desktop app; web and mobile do less | Annual per-user subscription |
| PlanSwift | Windows desktop only | Annual subscription |
| Buildxact | Browser | Monthly or annual plans |
| Groundplan | Browser | Paid plans after a 7-day free trial |
| Kubla Cubed | Windows desktop only | See the vendor's site |
Competitor details come from each vendor's own website, checked on the date shown on its comparison page.
Choose your market
Pages written for your country's units, sheet sizes, scales and currency.
Australia
Takeoff Software Australia
Australia United KingdomTakeoff Software UK
United Kingdom United StatesConstruction Takeoff Software for US Contractors
United States New ZealandTakeoff Software New Zealand
New ZealandCanada. MetreMate works in metric and imperial units, so mixed residential and commercial plans are fine. Prices are in Australian dollars today, and your card provider converts the charge.
Takeoff software questions
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