PlanSwift vs Buildxact

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Our analysts compared PlanSwift vs Buildxact 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

PlanSwift, a ConstructConnect offering, is an estimation software designed for general and specialty contractors. It helps manage concrete, drywall, electrical, flooring, framing, HVAC and more while improving accuracy, saving time and increasing profit margins.

Users can complete estimation for simple and complex areas, volumes, items, perimeters and length with point and click support. They can also drag-and-drop assemblies like labor costs, waste and materials and calculate expenses. It can do internal, material and labor calculations and export them to users’ Excel sheets.

Pros
  • Easy to learn & use
  • Fast, accurate takeoff
  • Flexible reporting tools
  • Good customer support
  • Cloud-based & mobile
Cons
  • Limited 3D capabilities
  • Fewer integrations
  • Higher cost for some projects
  • Can be slow on complex models
  • May require training for advanced features
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Buildxact is a cloud-based construction management and estimating software designed to streamline workflows for contractors of all sizes. It offers features like integrated takeoffs, real-time material pricing, proposal generation, project scheduling, and cost tracking. Buildxact is most suited for builders, remodelers, and specialty contractors seeking an all-in-one solution to improve efficiency and accuracy in bidding, project management, and financials. Users praise Buildxact's user-friendly interface, fast takeoffs, and pre-built templates that save time and effort. Integration with material suppliers and accounting software further enhances its appeal. Compared to similar products, Buildxact offers competitive pricing with various subscription tiers based on user count and project volume. While some users find its reporting features less robust than competitors, its ease of use and affordability make it a popular choice for many contractors.

Pros
  • Easy to use interface
  • Fast takeoffs & templates
  • Integrated material pricing
  • Real-time project tracking
  • Affordable pricing tiers
Cons
  • Limited reporting options
  • Fewer customization options
  • Not ideal for large projects
  • Integration issues reported
  • Mobile app lacks features
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$1,749 Annually
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$249/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

  • Faster Takeoff Times: Drag-and-drop interface and automated calculations dramatically reduce manual work, saving significant time on takeoffs.
  • Improved Accuracy: Eliminate manual errors with PlanSwift's precise measurements and automatic calculations, leading to more reliable estimates.
  • Enhanced Collaboration: Real-time cloud-based access allows teams to collaborate efficiently, ensuring everyone works with the latest information.
  • Streamlined Estimating: Generate professional estimates quickly and easily with flexible reporting tools and customizable templates.
  • Increased Project Visibility: Gain insights into material needs, costs, and potential risks with detailed takeoff reports and visual aids.
  • Reduced Material Waste: Accurate takeoffs lead to more precise material ordering, minimizing waste and saving costs.
  • Improved Bidding Competitiveness: Submit faster, more accurate bids with confidence, giving you an edge in the competition.
  • Mobile Accessibility: Access project data and takeoffs on the go with the mobile app, enhancing flexibility and productivity.
  • Scalability for Growth: As your business grows, PlanSwift easily adapts to handle larger and more complex projects.
  • Peace of Mind: Trustworthy customer support and regular software updates ensure you have the ongoing assistance you need.
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  • Manage Projects Efficiently: With faster takeoffs and streamlined administrative processes, spend more time scaling up the business and increasing profits.  
  • Streamline Communications: Leverage the client portal to communicate with customers whenever required. Keep projects running smoothly with centralized communication. 
  • Track Project Costs: Stay on top of costs and profitability in real time. Track key financial points and change them to ramp up profits. 
  • Simplify Takeoffs: Bid adieu to paper plans and scale rulers. Convert digital plans into PDFs and complete takeoff on-screen in moments.  
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  • Intuitive Drag-and-Drop Interface: Simplify takeoffs with point-and-click measurements and direct placement of pre-defined assemblies onto plans.
  • Automatic Calculations: Eliminate manual errors with PlanSwift's automatic calculations for lengths, areas, volumes, and more.
  • Multiple File Format Support: Seamlessly import and work with various file formats, including PDFs, DWGs, and images.
  • Customizable Assemblies: Create and save reusable assemblies for frequently used materials and components, streamlining takeoffs.
  • Advanced Measurement Tools: Handle complex shapes and curved lines with tools like arc calculations and automatic cut-out deductions.
  • Color Coding and Annotation Tools: Highlight different takeoff items, track progress, and add notes directly on plans for clear communication.
  • Powerful Reporting Tools: Generate detailed takeoff reports with customizable layouts, filtering options, and cost summaries.
  • Cloud-Based Collaboration: Work together on projects in real-time with team members and clients, regardless of location.
  • Mobile App Integration: Access project data, view plans, and perform basic takeoffs on the go with the mobile app.
  • Open API Integration: Connect PlanSwift with other software you use through its open API for increased data flow and automation.
  • Scalability and Customization: Adapt PlanSwift to your specific needs with customizable settings, user roles, and data fields.
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  • Accounting: Sync invoices and purchase orders to keep track of cash flow. Reduce human accounting errors by automating the entire accounts payable process.
  • Activity Dashboard: Track and organize all project activities in an interactive dashboard. Manage areas that require improvement and allocate labor in necessary areas.
  • Assembly Takeoff: Measure material and labor quantity to get an overall cost estimation of the project. Streamline materials and project management.
  • Bid Management: Create and manage bids quickly to win more work. Carefully design attractive bids that capture the imagination of clients.
  • Billing: Automate traditional billing and make the process more productive. Reduce paper dependency and process bills faster.
  • Change Order Management: Manage work change and additional services from contractors in a single place. Never miss out on anything while calculating payable amounts.
  • Contractor Management: Update contractors daily with changes in project schedules. Keep them accountable for all services they provide.
  • Audit Trail: Keep track of cash invoices and all transactions and processes through audits. Stay on top of bills and project progress to maintain accountability.
  • Calendar Management: Organize the workforce to complete priority work first and on time. Designate effort to required areas and plan calendars accordingly.
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Product Ranking

#6

among all
Takeoff Software

#12

among all
Takeoff Software

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Analyst Rating Summary

83
66
87
73
92
50
29
57
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Trades Management
Plans Management
Measurement Tools
Platform Capabilities
Project Management
Trades Management
Reports and Dashboards

Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

PlanSwift
Buildxact
+ Add Product + Add Product
Measurement Management Measurement Tools Mobile Capabilities Plans Management Platform Capabilities Project Management Reports And Dashboards Trades Management 87 92 29 94 91 88 71 100 73 50 57 58 72 73 86 100 0 25 50 75 100
87%
0%
13%
73%
0%
27%
92%
0%
8%
50%
0%
50%
29%
0%
71%
57%
0%
43%
94%
0%
6%
59%
0%
41%
83%
0%
17%
67%
0%
33%
88%
0%
12%
75%
0%
25%
71%
0%
29%
86%
0%
14%
100%
0%
0%
100%
0%
0%

Analyst Ratings for Technical Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

60%
0%
40%
30%
0%
70%

User Sentiment Summary

Great User Sentiment 411 reviews
Excellent User Sentiment 165 reviews
86%
of users recommend this product

PlanSwift has a 'great' User Satisfaction Rating of 86% when considering 411 user reviews from 3 recognized software review sites.

92%
of users recommend this product

Buildxact has a 'excellent' User Satisfaction Rating of 92% when considering 165 user reviews from 2 recognized software review sites.

4.3 (23)
n/a
n/a
4.57 (97)
4.3 (377)
4.6 (68)
4.0 (11)
n/a

Awards

SelectHub research analysts have evaluated PlanSwift and concluded it earns best-in-class honors for Platform Capabilities.

Platform Capabilities Award

Buildxact stands above the rest by achieving an ‘Excellent’ rating as a User Favorite.

User Favorite Award

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

User-Friendly Interface: Planswift is praised for its intuitive and straightforward interface which allows users to easily navigate and utilize the software, enhancing productivity for takeoff and estimating tasks.
Accurate Takeoffs: Users appreciate the precision that Planswift provides, enabling them to quickly generate accurate materials and labor estimates, essential for competitive bidding and managing project margins.
Customizable Templates: With Planswift, the ability to create custom templates for various project types helps streamline the estimating process, saving valuable time while ensuring consistency across estimates.
Integration with Other Software: The software's compatibility with third-party applications ensures a seamless workflow, allowing for the easy import and export of data and enhancing overall efficiency.
On-Screen Takeoff: The on-screen takeoff feature allows users to directly measure plans on their computer screen, reducing the need for physical plans and promoting a paperless environment.
Support and Training: Responsive customer support combined with a robust set of training resources empowers users to maximize the potential of the software.
Cost-Effective: Many users find Planswift to be an affordable solution without compromising the functionality required for managing takeoff and estimating complexities.
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User-friendly interface: Praised for its intuitive design and clear navigation, Buildxact minimizes the learning curve and empowers users to quickly grasp its functionalities, even with limited software experience.
Fast and accurate takeoffs: Integrated tools and pre-built libraries streamline the takeoff process, saving users time and reducing errors in material calculations, leading to more precise estimates and bids.
Real-time project tracking: Buildxact offers a centralized dashboard for tracking project progress, costs, and tasks in real-time, enabling better decision-making and proactive issue management.
Improved communication & collaboration: Built-in communication tools and shared project data foster seamless collaboration between teams, subcontractors, and clients, enhancing project transparency and efficiency.
Time-saving automation: Features like automated report generation and proposal creation free up valuable time for contractors to focus on core business activities and strategic planning.
Affordable pricing: Buildxact's tiered subscription plans cater to various company sizes and project volumes, offering a cost-effective solution compared to some competitors, making it accessible to a wider range of contractors.
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Steep Learning Curve: For new users, PlanSwift can be quite daunting to learn and master, particularly for those with limited tech experience, potentially delaying project starts.
Occasional Bugs: Users have reported running into software glitches that can disrupt the takeoff and estimating process, requiring workarounds or customer support intervention.
Inconsistent Customer Support: While some users find the support helpful, others report slow response times and varying levels of assistance when facing issues with the software.
Performance Issues with Large Files: Handling large and complex projects can sometimes slow down the software, leading to longer loading times and decreased responsiveness.
Limited Cloud Capabilities: Compared to competitors, PlanSwift's cloud features are not as robust, potentially hindering collaboration and remote access for teams.
Cost Prohibitive for Small Businesses: The pricing structure can be on the higher end, presenting financial challenges for small firms or independent contractors.
Outdated Interface: Some users feel that the user interface is not as modern or intuitive as other solutions, affecting user experience and efficiency.
Limited Integration with Other Platforms: PlanSwift's ability to integrate with other construction management or accounting software is often seen as insufficient or overly complex.
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Limited reporting options: While Buildxact provides basic reports, some users find them less customizable and comprehensive compared to competitors, limiting in-depth data analysis and insights.
Fewer customization options: Buildxact offers limited flexibility in customizing workflows and user interfaces, potentially hindering adaptation to highly specific needs or complex project types.
Mobile app limitations: While the mobile app allows basic project access, users report shortcomings in managing complex tasks or leveraging full functionalities compared to the web version.
Integration issues: Some users encounter challenges with integrations between Buildxact and other software, requiring troubleshooting or workarounds, potentially impacting workflow efficiency.
Not ideal for large projects: Buildxact's scalability might be limited for very large or intricate projects, where more robust features and advanced management capabilities might be necessary.
Learning curve for complex features: While generally user-friendly, some advanced features might require more in-depth training or support, especially for users unfamiliar with construction software.
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Users consistently praise Planswift's user-friendliness and affordability compared to industry giants like Bluebeam Revu and OnCenter Estimating. Newcomers find its interface intuitive and training resources abundant, enabling them to become productive quickly. Additionally, Planswift's subscription model makes it financially accessible to smaller firms and individual contractors. However, some users lament a perceived lack of advanced features present in competitors. While Planswift boasts core functionalities like 3D takeoff and integration with popular CAD programs, it may not cater to highly complex projects requiring specialized tools for intricate assemblies or detailed cost estimating. A key differentiator highlighted by users is Planswift's customer support. They commend its responsiveness and helpfulness, often exceeding expectations compared to competitors. This personalized support is crucial for users encountering technical issues or seeking guidance on advanced functionalities. Ultimately, user reviews depict Planswift as a valuable tool for those prioritizing ease of use, affordability, and reliable customer support. However, users requiring in-depth features for highly specialized projects might find themselves needing to explore alternative solutions. Weighing individual needs against Planswift's strengths and weaknesses is crucial for making an informed decision.

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Buildxact garners positive reviews for its user-friendly interface, efficient takeoffs, and affordability, making it a popular choice for contractors seeking to streamline workflows and improve project management. Users appreciate its intuitive design, which minimizes the learning curve and empowers even beginners to quickly grasp its functionalities. Integrated tools and pre-built libraries expedite takeoffs, saving time and reducing errors in material calculations, leading to more accurate estimates and competitive bids. However, some users find its reporting capabilities less versatile compared to competitors. While Buildxact offers basic reports, they lack the customization and depth desired for comprehensive data analysis and insights. Additionally, customization options are limited, potentially hindering adaptation to highly specific needs or complex projects. While a mobile app exists, its functionality is restricted, making it less suitable for managing intricate tasks on the go. Buildxact stands out for its affordability, with tiered subscription plans catering to various company sizes and project volumes. This makes it accessible to a wider range of contractors compared to some competitors with similar features. Users also praise its customer support, with most reporting prompt and helpful responses. However, during peak seasons or for complex issues, wait times might be longer. In conclusion, Buildxact is a user-friendly and affordable construction management software with strengths in takeoff speed, accuracy, and ease of use. However, its reporting and customization capabilities are less robust, and the mobile app has limitations. Users considering Buildxact should weigh its strengths against its limitations and compare it to competitors based on their specific needs and budget.

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Screenshots

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