PlanSwift vs CostX

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Our analysts compared PlanSwift vs CostX 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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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.
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$1,749 Annually
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Tailored to your specific needs
$4,500 One-Time
Get a free price quote
Tailored to your specific needs
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Windows
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Android
Chromebook
Windows
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Linux
Android
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Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile

Product Assistance

Documentation
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Live Online
Videos
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Documentation
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Live Online
Videos
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Email
Phone
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FAQ
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Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support
Email
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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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  • Generate Precise Quotes: Upload BIM files to estimate quantities and costs with just a few clicks. Develop forecast models to test what-if scenarios to improve efficiency. Enable multiple cost planners to work on the same estimate to promote collaboration. 
  • Eliminate Data-entry Errors: Drag and drop dimensions directly from the system to Microsoft Excel spreadsheets to save time. Automatically update changes made to estimates to keep everyone on the same page. 
  • Perform Accurate Takeoffs: Cut takeoff time by up to 80% with 2D takeoff tools. Automatically assign random colors to negative and positive measurements in each dimension group. 
  • Make Informed Decisions: Create and analyze data using reporting modules. Categorize tasks by zones and codes. Generate charts and graphs to identify trends and outliers. 
  • Deploy on the Cloud: Access files from remote locations through web-enabled devices. Track project statuses in real time. 
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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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  • BIM Takeoff: Extract material quantities from 3D models to create accurate estimates. Customize takeoffs by creating model maps. Encourage multiple employees to work on a single project. View BIM takeoffs using costX Viewer. 
  • 2D Takeoff: Calculate lengths, areas and counts of scanned 2D drawings, CAD files and PDFs. Integrate with costXL to link changes in dimensions and quantities into Microsoft Excel spreadsheets. 
  • Workbooks: Live-link material quantities to drawings and cost databases to help eliminate costly errors. Import Excel data retaining existing formulas. 
  • Subcontractor Comparison: Build databases consisting of relevant quotes using the bid day tool. Integrate subcontractors’ data with associated reports to make informed decisions. 
  • Auto-revisioning: Load initial measurements into revised DWG drawings to highlight modifications, make comparisons and update quantities. 
  • Reports: Build cost plans and bills of quantities as per client requirements using customizable report writing functionality. Automatically add page breaks to reports. 
  • Rate Libraries: Extract workers’ information, create bills of materials and generate cost estimates from BIM files. Access system administration to create rate libraries. 
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Product Ranking

#6

among all
Takeoff Software

#24

among all
Takeoff Software

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Analyst Rating Summary

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Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

PlanSwift
CostX
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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 0 25 50 75 100
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Analyst Ratings for Technical Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

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User Sentiment Summary

Great User Sentiment 411 reviews
Excellent User Sentiment 34 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.

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.

4.3 (23)
4.4 (4)
4.3 (377)
4.5 (28)
4.0 (11)
4.5 (2)

Awards

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

Platform Capabilities Award

CostX 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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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.
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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 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.
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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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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.

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Screenshots

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