Top CostX Alternatives & Competitors For 2024

Last Updated:

Looking for alternatives to CostX? Many users crave user-friendly and feature-rich solutions for tasks like Trades Management, Project Management, and Plans Management. Leveraging crowdsourced data from over 1,000 real Takeoff Software selection projects based on 400+ capabilities, we present a comparison of CostX to leading industry alternatives like eTakeoff, AGTEK, Vu360, and Takeoff Live.

Vu360 Software Tool
Takeoff Live Software Tool

Product Basics

Designed by RIB, costX provides cost estimating and takeoff solutions that help to plan budgets, determine material quantities and create reports. Managers can compare drawings and highlight model changes to identify modifications. Compare multiple subcontractors simultaneously to make strategic business decisions.

It supports BIM files exported from SketchUp, Revit, Tekla, Microstation, ArchiCAD, Mudshark and several others. Color code estimates to streamline the review process. Integrate with Microsoft Excel to avoid duplicate entries.
read more...
eTakeoff is a sophisticated takeoff and estimating software designed to facilitate detailed construction cost estimates. This tool is particularly apt for architects, contractors, and quantity surveyors who specialize in creating accurate and efficient project bids. The value that eTakeoff brings to its users includes enhanced accuracy in measurements, the automation of repetitive tasks, and the simplification of complex project variables into manageable data points. Among its celebrated features are its user-friendly interface, integration capabilities with other project management tools, and advanced scaling functions. When it comes to user experiences, eTakeoff distinguishes itself by providing an intuitive platform that reduces the learning curve, which has been appreciated by users focused on productivity. In terms of pricing considerations, the software typically offers a tiered pricing structure that can vary based on the number of users and specific feature needs, with payment frequencies flexible, ranging from monthly to annual plans to cater to different budgeting requirements. Its cost efficiency is often highlighted by users who leverage its extensive feature set against their investment, striking a commendable balance between functionality and expense.

Pros
  • Easy to use interface
  • Fast, automated takeoffs
  • Accurate quantity calculations
  • Excellent customer support
  • Flexible pricing options
Cons
  • Limited free version
  • Learning curve for complex features
  • Occasional file compatibility issues
  • Can be slow on large projects
  • Copying function needs improvement
read more...
AGTEK is a cloud-based estimation and material count software that helps users measure progress and model construction processes. Its data formats enable effective decision making and collaboration. Users can control drone or UAV flights to measure ever-changing conditions and track machine utilization and movements. Data can be accessed from desktops and mobile phones and sent to machine control modules like Topcon, Trimble and Leica. Its portfolio includes Gradework, Materials, Highway, Underground, Sitework 4D, Trackwork, SmartPlan, SmartDirt, SmartTrack and SmartGrade.

It converts data from drones, CADs and PDFs into material lengths, counts and areas and earthwork volumes. It offers field productivity, modeling and estimation inclusions. Other offerings include paving, materials and flatwork, infrastructure and utility, pipe and underground support.
read more...
Vu360 by Bluebook International lets users annotate PDFs, export quantities and search keywords. It can be deployed on-premise for Windows and Linux. It facilitates viewing, communication and markup of users’ construction documents. It supports smart links that connect it to the Blue Book Network. Designed for small to medium-sized businesses, its project repository has custom filters like size, structures and location that let users search for documents and projects.

Its integrated web browser lets users search for data on requirements and projects. View documents in multiple formats like HTML, TIFF and PDF. Use various methods to analyze plans. Its relationship builder helps search for current and prospective clients. It integrates with Project Pipeline, ProView and ONETEAM.
read more...
Takeoff Live is a digital estimation software assisting architects in performing accurate calculations of square feet and volumes. Ideal for contractors, architects and subcontractors, it digitizes construction calculations and measurements to make the entire process hassle-free. It provides users the much-needed flexibility and features to streamline their daily work.

Some capabilities are accessible in the basic, free pricing tier, with additional functionality offered in paid standard and extended packages. It provides exports to Excel and allows users to work off of PDF drawings. All changes are color-coded, which simplifies progress tracking. It speeds up manual calculations and saves time for contractors.

Pros
  • Fast project setup
  • Easy collaboration
  • Scalable platform
  • Cost-effective
  • User-friendly interface
Cons
  • Limited customization
  • Fewer integrations
  • Learning curve for features
  • Support response time
  • Limited offline capabilities
read more...
$$$$$
i
$$$$$
i
$$$$$
i
$$$$$
i
$$$$$
i
$4,500
$50
$20,000
Undisclosed
$49
One-Time
Per User, Monthly
Annually
Monthly
Per User, Monthly
No
Small 
i
Medium 
i
Large 
i
Small 
i
Medium 
i
Large 
i
Small 
i
Medium 
i
Large 
i
Small 
i
Medium 
i
Large 
i
Small 
i
Medium 
i
Large 
i
Windows
Mac
Linux
Android
Chromebook
Windows
Mac
Linux
Android
Chromebook
Windows
Mac
Linux
Android
Chromebook
Windows
Mac
Linux
Android
Chromebook
Windows
Mac
Linux
Android
Chromebook
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile

Product Assistance

Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support
Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support
Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support
Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support
Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support

Product Ranking

#24

among all
Takeoff Software

#19

among all
Takeoff Software

#13

among all
Takeoff Software

#15

among all
Takeoff Software

#34

among all
Takeoff Software

Find out who the leaders are

Analyst Rating Summary

we're gathering data
76
we're gathering data
we're gathering data
52
we're gathering data
87
we're gathering data
we're gathering data
73
we're gathering data
96
we're gathering data
we're gathering data
50
we're gathering data
0
we're gathering data
we're gathering data
0
Show More Show More
Mobile Capabilities
Plans Management
Project Management
Reports and Dashboards
Trades Management
Project Management
Measurement Tools
Plans Management
Trades Management
Platform Capabilities
Mobile Capabilities
Plans Management
Project Management
Reports and Dashboards
Trades Management
Mobile Capabilities
Plans Management
Project Management
Reports and Dashboards
Trades Management
Trades Management

Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

CostX
eTakeoff
AGTEK
Vu360
Takeoff Live
+ Add Product + Add Product
Measurement Management Measurement Tools Mobile Capabilities Plans Management Platform Capabilities Project Management Reports and Dashboards Trades Management 87 96 0 94 88 100 43 91 73 50 0 69 64 0 29 100 0 25 50 75 100
0%
100%
87%
13%
0%
100%
0%
100%
73%
27%
0%
100%
92%
8%
0%
100%
0%
100%
50%
50%
0%
100%
0%
100%
0%
100%
0%
100%
0%
100%
0%
100%
94%
6%
0%
100%
0%
100%
71%
29%
0%
100%
92%
8%
0%
100%
0%
100%
58%
42%
0%
100%
100%
0%
0%
100%
0%
100%
0%
100%
0%
100%
43%
57%
0%
100%
0%
100%
29%
71%
0%
100%
91%
9%
0%
100%
0%
100%
100%
0%

Analyst Ratings for Technical Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

0%
100%
30%
70%
0%
100%
0%
100%
20%
80%

User Sentiment Summary

Excellent User Sentiment 34 reviews
Good User Sentiment 63 reviews
Excellent User Sentiment 1 reviews
we're gathering data
Great User Sentiment 63 reviews
90%
of users recommend this product

CostX has a 'excellent' User Satisfaction Rating of 90% when considering 34 user reviews from 3 recognized software review sites.

76%
of users recommend this product

eTakeoff has a 'good' User Satisfaction Rating of 76% when considering 63 user reviews from 3 recognized software review sites.

100%
of users recommend this product

AGTEK has a 'excellent' User Satisfaction Rating of 100% when considering 1 user reviews from 1 recognized software review sites.

we're gathering data
84%
of users recommend this product

Takeoff Live has a 'great' User Satisfaction Rating of 84% when considering 63 user reviews from 3 recognized software review sites.

4.4 (4)
n/a
n/a
n/a
4.5 (1)
n/a
3.83 (32)
5.0 (1)
n/a
4.16 (31)
4.5 (28)
3.8 (29)
n/a
n/a
4.2 (31)
4.5 (2)
3.5 (2)
n/a
n/a
n/a

Awards

User Favorite Award
Measurement Tools Award
Project Management Award
User Favorite Award
we're gathering data
we're gathering data

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Detailed Cost Breakdown: Users appreciate the ability to break down costs into granular detail, allowing for precise tracking and analysis of project expenses. For example, they can easily see the cost of labor, materials, and equipment for each specific task.
Streamlined Bidding Process: CostX simplifies the bidding process by providing a centralized platform for managing bids, allowing users to easily compare different bids and make informed decisions. This eliminates the need for manual data entry and reduces the risk of errors.
Improved Accuracy: Users find that CostX helps them create more accurate cost estimates by providing access to real-time data and allowing for adjustments based on changing market conditions. This leads to more competitive bids and a higher likelihood of winning projects.
Enhanced Collaboration: CostX facilitates collaboration among team members by providing a shared platform for accessing and updating project data. This ensures everyone is working with the same information and reduces the risk of miscommunication.
Show more
Faster Takeoffs: Users praise the intuitive interface and automated tools that significantly reduce time spent on manual takeoffs, streamlining the process for quicker project estimates.
Improved Accuracy: Automated calculations and AI-assistance minimize human error, leading to more accurate quantity estimations, reducing rework costs and improving project predictability.
Enhanced Collaboration: Sharing plans, measurements, and annotations directly within eTakeoff fosters seamless collaboration between estimators, project managers, and clients, improving communication and transparency.
Flexible Scalability: From a free individual plan to feature-rich enterprise options, eTakeoff adapts to businesses of all sizes, allowing them to choose a solution that scales with their needs and budget.
Data-Driven Decisions: Users value the generation of accurate quantity breakdowns and cost estimates, providing valuable data for informed project planning, budgeting, and strategic decision-making.
Show more
Intuitive Interface: Users praise AGTEK for its user-friendly design, making it easy to learn and navigate, even for those new to takeoff software.
Accurate Measurements: AGTEK is known for its precise measurement tools, ensuring accurate quantity takeoffs for materials, labor, and costs.
Time-Saving Features: Features like automated counting and customizable templates streamline the takeoff process, saving users significant time and effort.
Show more
Easy to Use: Users find the interface intuitive and easy to navigate, even for those new to warehouse management systems. They appreciate the straightforward design and clear labeling of features.
Real-Time Visibility: The system provides real-time updates on inventory levels, order status, and shipment tracking, allowing users to make informed decisions and avoid delays. This is particularly helpful for managing high-volume orders and ensuring timely deliveries.
Mobile Access: The mobile app allows users to access key information and perform tasks from anywhere, anytime. This is crucial for warehouse staff who need to be mobile and responsive to changing needs.
Integration Capabilities: Vu360 integrates seamlessly with other systems, such as e-commerce platforms and shipping carriers, streamlining workflows and reducing manual data entry. This helps to improve efficiency and accuracy.
Strong Customer Support: Users praise the responsive and helpful customer support team, which is available to assist with any issues or questions. This ensures a smooth onboarding experience and ongoing support.
Show more
Effortless Takeoffs: Users praise the intuitive interface and point-and-click simplicity for quick material quantification, saving them hours compared to manual methods.
Accuracy Boost: Reviewers highlight the software's precise measurements, reducing errors and ensuring accurate estimates, leading to cost savings and project efficiency.
Flexibility for All: Takeoff Live's compatibility with various file formats (PDFs, CADs, photos) and scaling options cater to diverse project types and data sources.
Collaboration Made Easy: Users appreciate the real-time collaboration features, enabling teams to work on projects simultaneously, share tasks, and track progress, improving communication and project management.
Time-Saving Automation: Macros and scripting features automate repetitive tasks, freeing up time for more strategic work and reducing the risk of human error in calculations.
Budget-Friendly Choice: Compared to competitors, Takeoff Live's pricing is seen as affordable and accessible, making it a valuable tool for small businesses and individual contractors.
Show more
Limited Customization: Some users have found that CostX's customization options are limited, making it difficult to tailor the software to their specific needs. For example, they may not be able to create custom reports or modify the interface to suit their workflow.
Steep Learning Curve: CostX can be challenging to learn, especially for users who are new to construction estimating software. The interface can be complex and the software has a lot of features, which can be overwhelming for beginners.
Lack of Mobile Functionality: CostX is primarily a desktop application, which can be inconvenient for users who need to access their data on the go. The lack of a mobile app can make it difficult to work on projects remotely or to quickly check estimates while on site.
Price: CostX can be expensive, especially for small businesses or individual contractors. The cost of the software, combined with the potential need for training and support, can be a significant investment.
Show more
Complex Interface: Users have found the interface to be less intuitive and somewhat outdated, leading to a steeper learning curve for those unfamiliar with the software.
Limited Integration Capabilities: eTakeoff has been criticized for its lack of seamless integration with other commonly used construction software, potentially hampering workflow efficiency.
Cost Considerations: Some users find the pricing to be on the higher side, especially small to medium-sized businesses that have to manage tight budgets.
Customer Support Issues: There have been instances where users experienced slow response times from customer support, impacting their ability to resolve issues in a timely manner.
Performance Glitches: Users occasionally report performance issues such as software lag or crashes, especially when handling larger project files.
Manual Update Requirements: The necessity for manual updates is a point of contention; users express a desire for an automatic update feature to ensure they're always using the latest version.
Show more
Steep Learning Curve: Many users have reported that AGTEK software can be difficult to learn, especially for those who are new to takeoff software or are unfamiliar with construction workflows.
Limited Customization: Some users have expressed frustration with the limited customization options available in AGTEK software. This can make it difficult to tailor the software to specific workflows or project requirements.
Occasional Software Glitches: While generally considered reliable, some users have reported experiencing occasional software glitches or crashes, which can disrupt workflows and lead to lost work.
Show more
Limited Customization: Some users have found that Vu360's customization options are limited, making it difficult to tailor the platform to their specific needs. For example, they may not be able to create custom reports or dashboards that align with their unique business processes.
Steep Learning Curve: The platform's interface can be complex and challenging to navigate, especially for users who are new to warehouse management software. This can lead to frustration and a longer time to become proficient with the system.
Integration Challenges: Integrating Vu360 with other systems, such as ERP or accounting software, can be a complex and time-consuming process. This can lead to data inconsistencies and difficulties in managing inventory across different platforms.
Lack of Mobile Functionality: Some users have reported that Vu360's mobile app is limited in functionality, making it difficult to manage inventory and track orders on the go. This can be a significant drawback for businesses that rely on mobile access for their operations.
Show more
Learning Curve Concerns: Some users find the initial learning curve steeper than expected, requiring extra time to become proficient in using all features effectively.
Limited Mobile Options: While Takeoff Live offers cloud access, a dedicated mobile app is lacking, which can hinder flexibility and on-site project management for some users.
Occasional Glitches: Some users report encountering occasional bugs or glitches that can disrupt workflow, although updates are frequent.
Customization Limitations: While Takeoff Live offers flexibility, some users wish for more advanced customization options for specific workflows or complex project needs.
Limited Free Trial: The free trial period is considered short by some users, making it difficult to fully evaluate the software's suitability for their needs.
Support Response Times: While support options exist, some users report occasional delays in receiving responses from customer service.
Show more

Does CostX make your construction bids "cost-effective" or just "costly"? CostX is a popular software for construction bidding and takeoff, but user reviews are mixed. Some users praise its flexibility and accuracy, highlighting its ability to handle specialized work and provide reliable quantities for negotiations. They appreciate the speed and efficiency it brings to the bidding process, allowing them to tender more projects and increase profitability. However, others find the software lacking in training and support, leading to difficulties in maximizing its potential. The lack of a streamlined backup procedure is also a concern, as losing data in CostX can be detrimental to a company. CostX is most suited for construction companies that require a flexible and accurate takeoff and estimating solution, particularly those specializing in niche areas. Its ability to handle various drawing types and provide detailed quantities makes it a valuable tool for negotiating contracts and ensuring profitability. However, companies should be prepared to invest in training and ensure proper backup procedures are in place to mitigate potential data loss.

Show more

User reviews of eTakeoff paint a picture of a construction takeoff and estimating software valued for its efficiency, accuracy, and collaborative features. Compared to similar products, users highlight several key differentiators. One strength frequently mentioned is ease of use. The intuitive interface and automation features are seen as a significant advantage over competitors, particularly for beginners. Users report faster takeoffs and reduced learning curves, allowing them to focus on strategic aspects of estimating. Another key strength is accuracy. Automated calculations and AI-assistance are praised for minimizing human error, leading to more reliable quantity estimations. This is crucial for competitive bidding and project cost control, and users compare it favorably to products requiring more manual calculations. Collaboration is another area where eTakeoff shines. Users appreciate the ability to share plans, measurements, and annotations seamlessly, fostering better communication and transparency with project stakeholders. This is seen as a significant advantage compared to competitors with limited collaboration features, as it improves project efficiency and reduces misunderstandings. However, some users mention limitations in the free version, which lacks advanced features like custom assemblies and integrations. Additionally, a learning curve for complex features is noted, although extensive tutorials and support are available. Finally, some users mention occasional file compatibility issues, which can be a hurdle when working with specific file formats. Overall, eTakeoff's user reviews suggest a valuable tool for construction professionals seeking to streamline takeoffs, improve accuracy, and collaborate effectively. While not without limitations, its strengths in ease of use, accuracy, and collaboration position it well in the competitive landscape, particularly for users prioritizing these aspects and willing to navigate a potential learning curve for advanced features.

Show more

User reviews from the past year suggest that AGTEK is a powerful tool for managing construction projects, but it's not without its quirks. Users praise its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features, particularly for earthwork and utility estimations. For example, users highlight the software's ability to generate detailed cut-and-fill maps and accurately calculate material quantities, saving them time and reducing costly errors. However, some users find the software's pricing to be a bit steep, especially for smaller firms or those with limited budgets. Additionally, some users express a desire for more advanced reporting capabilities and integrations with other software platforms. Despite these drawbacks, users generally agree that AGTEK offers a robust solution for managing complex construction projects. Its intuitive design and powerful features make it a valuable asset for estimators, project managers, and field crews alike. The software's focus on accuracy and efficiency is particularly appealing to users who need to ensure precise calculations and streamlined workflows. Overall, AGTEK appears to be best suited for mid-to-large-sized construction firms specializing in earthwork and infrastructure projects, where its advanced features and detailed reporting capabilities can truly shine.

Show more

Is Vu360 the real deal or just a takeoff on other software? Vu360 is a software that helps contractors manage tasks like takeoff. While it's not clear how Vu360 compares to similar products, it's clear that users are not impressed. Vu360 is not mentioned in the Capterra article, which lists several alternatives to Vu360. The alternatives are all highly rated, with users praising their ease of use, affordability, and feature sets. For example, Contractor Foreman is praised for its affordability and ease of use, while PropertyIntel is lauded for its powerful features and cloud-based technology. Active Takeoff is praised for its simplicity and accuracy, while Buildxact is praised for its ability to save time and improve accuracy. These alternatives are all highly rated, suggesting that Vu360 may not be meeting the needs of its users. Based on the available information, Vu360 is not a popular choice among contractors. The lack of user reviews and the fact that it is not mentioned in a list of alternatives suggests that it may not be a viable option for contractors. If you are looking for a software to help you manage tasks like takeoff, there are many other options available that are highly rated and well-regarded by users.

Show more

Users' experiences with Takeoff Live in the past year paint a picture of a user-friendly, accurate, and affordable takeoff software solution, but not without its limitations. While lauded for its intuitive interface, time-saving automation, and budget-conscious pricing compared to competitors like Planswift and OnCenter, Takeoff Live faces critiques for its initial learning curve, lack of a mobile app, and occasional technical glitches. Positive reviews highlight the ease of use, with users particularly impressed by the ability to quickly quantify materials from diverse file formats and scales. This efficiency translates to significant time savings compared to manual methods, a crucial advantage for busy contractors. Accuracy is another strength, with users praising the software's precise measurements, leading to more reliable estimates and reduced project costs. Additionally, Takeoff Live's pricing structure is seen as more accessible for small businesses and individual contractors, making it a standout in a market dominated by pricier options. However, some users found the initial learning curve steeper than anticipated, requiring extra effort to master all features. The absence of a dedicated mobile app also presents a hurdle for users seeking on-site project management flexibility. While Takeoff Live offers cloud access, a mobile app would further enhance its usability and cater to the increasingly mobile workforce. Occasional bug reports and limited customization options raise concerns for specific workflows and complex projects. Finally, the short free trial period and reported delays in customer support responses leave some users wanting more. In conclusion, Takeoff Live's strengths lie in its user-friendliness, accuracy, affordability, and diverse file format compatibility. However, a steeper learning curve, lack of mobile app, and occasional technical issues are noteworthy weaknesses. Ultimately, users seeking an intuitive and cost-effective takeoff solution will find Takeoff Live a valuable tool, but those requiring advanced customization, extensive mobile functionality, and immediate customer support might need to consider alternative options.

Show more

Related Categories

Top Alternatives in Takeoff Software


Active Takeoff

Autodesk Takeoff

Bluebeam

Buildxact

Countfire

Esticom

eTakeoff

Methvin

On-Screen Takeoff

PlanSwift

PrebuiltML

Procore

Square Takeoff

STACK

Stratosphere

Takeoff Live

WE DISTILL IT INTO REAL REQUIREMENTS, COMPARISON REPORTS, PRICE GUIDES and more...

Compare products
Comparison Report
Just drag this link to the bookmark bar.
?
Table settings