eTakeoff vs Countfire

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Our analysts compared eTakeoff vs Countfire based on data from our 400+ point analysis of Takeoff Software, user reviews and our own crowdsourced data from our free software selection platform.

Product Basics

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
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Countfire is an automation software that assists construction workers in performing seamless estimations. It has the capability to conduct automatic on-screen calculations and reduce overall estimation time. Electrical, mechanical and plumbing contractors use it to automate counting and provide CAD and Excel integrations.

Improve accuracy with quality control reports and ensure drawings and estimations are comprehensive and complete. Estimators can create symbols to automatically count across the entire structure. It is cloud-based, allowing users to access work remotely through mobile devices and computers.

Pros
  • Easy to use interface
  • Fast takeoff creation
  • Cloud-based accessibility
  • Collaboration features
  • Free plan available
Cons
  • Limited free plan features
  • Fewer integrations compared to competitors
  • Reporting tools can be basic
  • Customer support wait times
  • Limited customization options
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$50/User, Monthly
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$99/User, Monthly
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Tailored to your specific needs
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Windows
Mac
Linux
Android
Chromebook
Windows
Mac
Linux
Android
Chromebook
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile

Product Assistance

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

Product Insights

  • Increased Efficiency: Ditch manual takeoffs and leverage onscreen tools for faster, less error-prone quantifications.
  • Enhanced Accuracy: Minimize manual calculations and human error with automated features and AI-powered assistance.
  • Improved Collaboration: Share plans and measurements seamlessly with stakeholders for better project understanding and decision-making.
  • Boosted Productivity: Automate repetitive tasks, manage projects efficiently, and free up time for higher-value activities.
  • Streamlined Workflow: Integrate effortlessly with common estimating software and planrooms for a smooth, connected experience.
  • Reduced Costs: Minimize rework due to errors, optimize material procurement, and potentially win more bids with competitive quotes.
  • Scalable Solutions: Choose a plan that fits your business needs, from a free basic version to feature-rich enterprise options.
  • Data-Driven Decisions: Generate accurate quantity breakdowns and cost estimates to inform strategic project planning and budgeting.
  • Improved Communication: Share clear, annotated takeoffs with clients and subcontractors, fostering transparency and trust.
  • Enhanced Competitiveness: Submit accurate, timely bids with confidence, potentially increasing your win rate.
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  • Enhanced Efficiency: Countfire automates tedious manual tasks like counting symbols and materials, significantly reducing takeoff time and effort. This allows estimators to focus on critical tasks like project analysis and pricing.
  • Improved Accuracy: Automated takeoffs minimize human error, leading to more accurate estimates and fewer costly rework scenarios. The software also includes built-in checks and audit trails for further quality assurance.
  • Increased Collaboration: Cloud-based access enables real-time project collaboration among team members and stakeholders, regardless of location. This facilitates faster decision-making and smoother project execution.
  • Streamlined Workflow: Countfire integrates seamlessly with various estimating software and data sources, eliminating the need for manual data entry and streamlining the overall workflow. This saves time and reduces the risk of errors.
  • Greater Scalability: Countfire accommodates projects of all sizes and complexities, making it suitable for growing businesses. The scalable pricing structure ensures affordability as your needs evolve.
  • Data-Driven Decisions: Countfire provides valuable insights into historical data and project trends, enabling informed decision-making about pricing, resource allocation, and project management.
  • Enhanced Communication: The software generates professional reports and proposals with accurate takeoffs and pricing breakdowns, improving communication with clients and stakeholders.
  • Reduced Costs: By minimizing errors, streamlining workflows, and improving efficiency, Countfire helps businesses reduce overall project costs and improve profitability.
  • Competitive Advantage: Faster, more accurate estimates and efficient workflows enable businesses to submit competitive bids and win more projects.
  • Improved Client Satisfaction: Accurate estimates and clear communication lead to greater client satisfaction and trust, strengthening client relationships.
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  • Dimension Basic: Take simple measurements and view information created with Advanced or Premier versions.
    • Integration: Integrate an electronic planroom. Jump back and forth between plans without switching back to the planroom.
    • Scaling and Measuring: Set drawing scales and measure counts, lengths, perimeters and areas with precision. Transfer quantities to other applications via the clipboard.
  • Dimension Advanced: Speed up time-consuming conversions of file formats with advanced database technology.
    • Flip/Rotate Measurements: Save time creating takeoffs of extended areas like hotels. Measure one side and flip the design to get a total measurement.
    • Viewing tools: Quickly access lists of layers, drawings, measurements, quantities, traces and other tools to create and correct multiple drawings at the same time.
    • Measurement List: Extract printable lists of all measurements and sort by column values and display subtotals.
    • Bid codes: Create and export standard bid codes with extensive control over formatting.
    • Annotations: Highlight drawings with text, lines, rectangles, ovals, clouds, freehand lines and arrows.
    • Issue Management: Flag issues as open, critical or resolved. Display an issues list to see which items need attention.
    • FTP Integration: Use FTP to add drawings to projects. Display them for viewings and takeoffs.
    • Drawing Comparison: Compare original drawings to revised drawings, different floors in multi-story buildings or specific units to original models in residential and other construction sites.
  • Dimension Premier: Get premier tools and features to make takeoff easier.
    • Search Patterns: Use pattern search to tag symbols representing materials in any trade, including door and wall types, fixtures, and receptacles. Search drawings for symbols and display them for review.
    • Advanced Excel Integration: Automatically update measurements. Drill down on formulas to see measurements used.
    • Quantity Worksheet: Summarize takeoff measurements, quantities and annotations in projects. Analyze and extract complete auditing reports.
    • Advanced Project & Drawing Management: View and sort projects by bid date, description or plan source. Select auto-backups and hide or delete multiple projects.
    • Advanced Measuring Tools: Use advanced tools to create and edit annotations and make takeoffs more efficient.
  • Bridge: Capture item and assembly information to present within the Bridge main window.
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  • Assembly Takeoff: Reduce time needed for conducting takeoffs and completing measurements quickly. Bid on more projects without hiring additional personnel.
  • Electronic Plans: Chart objectives and daily proceedings electronically. Secure digitized plans in the cloud to provide access to all workers.
  • Issue Management: Design and execute contingency plans in the event of a disaster. Back up data and files securely to ensure nothing is lost.
  • Project Management: Direct and coordinate materials and labor throughout project life cycles effectively. Achieve predetermined objectives and attain daily goals by allocating labor to the correct places.
  • Takeoff: Execute takeoffs to determine the number of materials and amount of labor needed for a project. Submit accurate bids to win more work quickly.
  • Estimating: Conduct accurate estimations to determine the viability of a project. Minimize unforeseen costs to increase client satisfaction and attract repeat customers.
  • Projections: Stay on top of project completion time and progress through projections. Align and redirect efforts to accelerate certain areas of projects based on data.
  • Drag & Drop: Save valuable time by dragging and dropping items in the dashboard. Complete measurements with just a few mouse clicks.
  • Performance Metrics: Stay on top of workers and daily project metrics. Allocate sufficient effort to areas needing improvement and ensure projects run smoothly.
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Product Ranking

#19

among all
Takeoff Software

#35

among all
Takeoff Software

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Analyst Rating Summary

76
65
87
67
96
75
0
14
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Project Management
Measurement Tools
Plans Management
Trades Management
Platform Capabilities
Project Management
Reports and Dashboards

Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

eTakeoff
Countfire
+ 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 67 75 14 81 72 100 86 64 0 25 50 75 100
87%
0%
13%
67%
0%
33%
92%
0%
8%
75%
0%
25%
0%
0%
100%
14%
0%
86%
94%
0%
6%
82%
0%
18%
92%
0%
8%
67%
0%
33%
100%
0%
0%
100%
0%
0%
43%
0%
57%
86%
0%
14%
91%
0%
9%
64%
0%
36%

Analyst Ratings for Technical Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

30%
0%
70%
10%
0%
90%

User Sentiment Summary

Good User Sentiment 63 reviews
Excellent User Sentiment 290 reviews
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.

94%
of users recommend this product

Countfire has a 'excellent' User Satisfaction Rating of 94% when considering 290 user reviews from 2 recognized software review sites.

3.83 (32)
4.71 (150)
3.8 (29)
4.7 (140)
3.5 (2)
n/a

Awards

SelectHub research analysts have evaluated eTakeoff and concluded it earns best-in-class honors for Measurement Tools and Project Management.

Measurement Tools Award
Project Management Award

SelectHub research analysts have evaluated Countfire and concluded it earns best-in-class honors for Project Management. Countfire stands above the rest by achieving an ‘Excellent’ rating as a User Favorite.

User Favorite Award
Project Management Award

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

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.
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Automatic Counting: Users appreciate that Countfire automates the process of counting symbols across multiple PDFs, significantly reducing the time and potential for error compared to manual counts.
Excel Integration: The ability to seamlessly export data to Excel is highly valued for simplifying the estimation process and allowing easy manipulation of counted data.
Scale Calibration: Countfire’s scale calibration feature assists in ensuring that measurements are accurate, enhancing the reliability of takeoffs.
Straightforward User Interface: The intuitive interface is frequently mentioned as being easy to navigate, making the learning curve for new users relatively short.
24/7 Access: Being cloud-based, Countfire gives users the flexibility to access their projects anytime and anywhere, which is particularly beneficial for professionals who are often on the move.
Dedicated Support: The responsive and helpful customer support team is often highlighted as a strong point, providing assistance whenever users encounter issues.
Continuous Improvement: Users are reassured by the fact that Countfire regularly updates its software, addressing bugs and adding new features based on user feedback.
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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.
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Learning Curve: New users often report a significant learning curve with Countfire's interface and functionalities, which can impede the initial adoption and efficiency of the software.
Cost Considerations: Some users find Countfire's pricing to be on the higher end compared to other takeoff solutions, which might be a deterrent for smaller businesses or those with tighter budgets.
Integration Limitations: Countfire may not integrate seamlessly with other construction management platforms or ERP systems, creating potential data silos and workflow disruptions.
Customer Support: A few users have expressed dissatisfaction with the responsiveness or effectiveness of Countfire’s customer support during critical times.
Feature Set: Countfire may lack some advanced features that are offered by competing products, which could limit the software’s appeal to users with complex or specific needs.
Performance Issues: Occasional software slowdowns or crashes have been reported, potentially affecting large-scale projects with numerous drawings.
File Compatibility: There are instances where users have encountered difficulties with uploading or processing certain file types, hindering project progress.
Reporting Tools: The reporting capabilities of Countfire may not meet the expectations of all users, particularly those needing detailed or custom reports for project analysis.
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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.

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Analyzing user reviews of Countfire from the past year reveals a generally positive sentiment towards its efficiency and user-friendliness. Users praise its automated takeoff capabilities, particularly for repetitive tasks like counting fixtures or conduit runs, highlighting significant time savings compared to manual methods. This automated aspect is often contrasted favorably with competitors, who may require more manual input or lack intuitive interfaces. Another strength frequently mentioned is Countfire's customer support, described as responsive and helpful. Users appreciate the quick resolution of issues and the availability of training resources. This stands out compared to some competitors who might have less accessible or limited support options. However, some reviews mention limitations in handling highly complex projects with unique geometries or extensive custom requirements. While Countfire offers advanced tools, users suggest it may not be as adept in these scenarios as certain competitors known for robust 3D modeling integration. Additionally, the subscription-based pricing model might be perceived as less cost-effective for smaller businesses or infrequent users compared to perpetual license options offered by some alternatives. Overall, Countfire seems to be a strong choice for electrical contractors seeking to streamline takeoff and estimating processes, especially those valuing user-friendliness, automation, and responsive support. However, for highly complex projects or budget-conscious users, exploring competitor offerings with advanced 3D modeling or perpetual licensing might be worthwhile.

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Screenshots

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