PlanSwift vs eTakeoff

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Our analysts compared PlanSwift vs eTakeoff 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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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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$1,749 Annually
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$50/User, Monthly
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Tailored to your specific needs
Small 
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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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  • 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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  • 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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  • 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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Product Ranking

#6

among all
Takeoff Software

#19

among all
Takeoff Software

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Analyst Rating Summary

83
76
87
87
92
96
29
0
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Trades Management
Plans Management
Measurement Tools
Platform Capabilities
Project Management
Project Management
Measurement Tools
Plans Management
Trades Management
Platform Capabilities

Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

PlanSwift
eTakeoff
+ 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 87 96 0 94 88 100 43 91 0 25 50 75 100
87%
0%
13%
87%
0%
13%
92%
0%
8%
92%
0%
8%
29%
0%
71%
0%
0%
100%
94%
0%
6%
94%
0%
6%
83%
0%
17%
92%
0%
8%
88%
0%
12%
100%
0%
0%
71%
0%
29%
43%
0%
57%
100%
0%
0%
91%
0%
9%

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
Good User Sentiment 63 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.

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.

4.3 (23)
n/a
n/a
3.83 (32)
4.3 (377)
3.8 (29)
4.0 (11)
3.5 (2)

Awards

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

Platform Capabilities Award

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

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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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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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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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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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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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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Screenshots

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