Square Takeoff vs CostX

Last Updated:

Our analysts compared Square Takeoff 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.

Square Takeoff Software Tool

Product Basics

Square Takeoff is designed to cater to the needs of contractors and construction businesses seeking a streamlined solution for both takeoff and estimating processes. It is particularly well-suited for small to medium-sized firms that desire an intuitive platform for generating accurate cost estimates and material takeoffs. The software shines with its ability to automate measuring and scaling off of uploaded digital plans, which can significantly cut down on the time traditionally spent on manual takeoffs. Key features that resonate with users include cloud-based access for collaboration, integration capabilities, and dedicated customer support. While the tool delivers on essential functionalities, users should weigh pricing models that can vary based on usage, features, and number of users, with considerations towards the financial commitment that comes with subscription-based services. When compared to other offerings in the market, users have shown appreciation for its user-friendly interface and efficient project management, though the depth of features may differ compared to more expensive or specialized platforms.

Pros
  • Easy to use interface
  • Accurate estimates
  • Cloud-based collaboration
  • Mobile app for on-site takeoff
  • Affordable pricing
Cons
  • Limited customization options
  • Learning curve for advanced features
  • May not be suitable for complex projects
  • Limited integration with some software
  • Customer support could be improved
read more...
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...
$75/User, Monthly
Get a free price quote
Tailored to your specific needs
$4,500 One-Time
Get a free price quote
Tailored to your specific needs
Small 
i
Medium 
i
Large 
i
Small 
i
Medium 
i
Large 
i
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

  • Gain Competitive Advantages: Calculate areas, share plans and more to perform quick takeoffs. Prepare bids faster to win work before competitors.  
  • Save Time and Money: Perform material estimations and takeoffs quicker with efficient tools. Make informed decisions to save on needless project costs.  
  • Remote Access: Leverage cloud capabilities to access work remotely. Ensure projects run smoothly from anywhere, anytime.  
  • Perform Quick Takeoffs:  Leverage automated tools to perform estimations and record calculations of floors and ceilings in seconds.  
read more...
  • 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. 
read more...
  • Accounting: Keep track of project accounting and overall cash flow. Ensure that all payables are processed correctly and on time.
  • Assembly Takeoff: Accelerate the process of calculating material and labor costs for projects seamlessly. Calculate accurately to make better bids.
  • Templates: Leverage custom templates to prepare attractive bids to win work faster. Save time on creating layouts manually and speed up the bidding process.
  • Electrical Estimating: Get labor cost and materials data to put together total project costs. Construct bids based on data and submit them to clients.
  • Reporting and Analytics: Obtain regular reports of work done on an interactive dashboard. Extract actionable insights from analytics and improve certain project areas.
  • Electronic Plans: Save all work, material and labor plans electronically in a centralized database. Provide access to all relevant parties and prevent anyone from misplacing crucial information.
  • Takeoff: Perform accurate material and labor calculations to prepare bids for work. Accelerate the process by using a cloud-based platform and save on capital waste.
read more...
  • 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. 
read more...

Product Ranking

#18

among all
Takeoff Software

#24

among all
Takeoff Software

Find out who the leaders are

Analyst Rating Summary

70
we're gathering data
80
we're gathering data
75
we're gathering data
14
we're gathering data
Show More Show More

Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

Square Takeoff
CostX
+ Add Product + Add Product
Measurement Management Measurement Tools Mobile Capabilities Plans Management Platform Capabilities Project Management Reports And Dashboards Trades Management 80 75 14 77 78 88 86 91 0 25 50 75 100
80%
0%
20%
we're gathering data
N/A
we're gathering data
N/A
we're gathering data
N/A
75%
0%
25%
we're gathering data
N/A
we're gathering data
N/A
we're gathering data
N/A
14%
0%
86%
we're gathering data
N/A
we're gathering data
N/A
we're gathering data
N/A
76%
0%
24%
we're gathering data
N/A
we're gathering data
N/A
we're gathering data
N/A
75%
0%
25%
we're gathering data
N/A
we're gathering data
N/A
we're gathering data
N/A
88%
0%
12%
we're gathering data
N/A
we're gathering data
N/A
we're gathering data
N/A
86%
0%
14%
we're gathering data
N/A
we're gathering data
N/A
we're gathering data
N/A
91%
0%
9%
we're gathering data
N/A
we're gathering data
N/A
we're gathering data
N/A

Analyst Ratings for Technical Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

20%
0%
80%
we're gathering data
N/A
we're gathering data
N/A
we're gathering data
N/A

User Sentiment Summary

Great User Sentiment 16 reviews
Excellent User Sentiment 34 reviews
88%
of users recommend this product

Square Takeoff has a 'great' User Satisfaction Rating of 88% when considering 16 user reviews from 2 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.

n/a
4.4 (4)
4.0 (9)
n/a
4.9 (7)
4.5 (28)
n/a
4.5 (2)

Awards

we're gathering data

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: Streamlined design and intuitive tools make it easy to learn and navigate, even for those new to takeoff and estimating software.
Faster and more accurate estimates: Automated takeoff, pre-built assemblies, and real-time cost updates reduce manual calculations and errors, leading to quicker and more precise estimates.
Cloud-based collaboration: Real-time project updates and accessible cloud storage enable seamless teamwork and communication, improving project management and efficiency.
Mobile app for on-site takeoff: Capture measurements and project data directly on-site with the mobile app, saving time and ensuring accurate data collection.
Affordable pricing: Competitive subscription plans and per-project options cater to various business sizes and budgets, making it accessible for contractors of all scales.
Integration with popular software: Connects with accounting and project management tools, streamlining data flow and eliminating manual data entry, saving time and effort.
Historical data and reporting: Provides insights into past projects, material usage, and costs, enabling informed decision-making and improved future estimating accuracy.
Show more
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
Limited customization: While offering pre-built assemblies, users mention limited options for creating highly customized assemblies or material lists, potentially impacting flexibility for specific project needs.
Learning curve for advanced features: Some advanced features, like cost breakdowns or integrations, might require more technical understanding, potentially hindering user experience for beginners or those unfamiliar with similar software.
Limited for complex projects: While suitable for many projects, users report potential limitations for highly intricate or specialized builds. These might require software with more advanced features like 3D modeling or detailed cost analysis.
Mixed customer support experiences: User reviews suggest varying experiences with customer support, with some praising responsiveness and helpfulness, while others mention occasional wait times or limited technical expertise.
Potential storage limitations: The free plan might have limited storage, requiring upgrades for larger projects, adding to overall costs. Users recommend carefully considering storage needs when choosing a plan.
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

Square Takeoff garners mixed reviews from users in the construction industry, often highlighting its ease of use, affordability, and cloud-based collaboration as key strengths. Newcomers to takeoff and estimating software appreciate its intuitive interface and pre-built assemblies, which streamline tasks and reduce errors compared to manual calculations. Additionally, its competitive pricing plans cater to various business sizes, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious contractors. The cloud-based nature facilitates seamless collaboration and information sharing, keeping teams and clients on the same page throughout projects. However, some users point out limitations compared to competitors. Square Takeoff might lack the extensive customization options and advanced features found in pricier software, potentially hindering its suitability for highly complex or specialized projects. For instance, users mention limited flexibility in creating custom assemblies or detailed cost breakdowns, which are crucial for intricate builds. Additionally, while offering integrations with popular software, some users report occasional limitations or technical hurdles compared to more established competitor offerings. Ultimately, user satisfaction hinges on project complexity, budget, and individual preferences. For contractors comfortable with a standardized approach and prioritizing affordability and user-friendliness, Square Takeoff offers a compelling solution. However, those tackling intricate projects or demanding extensive customization might find its limitations outweigh its strengths, necessitating exploration of more advanced competitor options.

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

Screenshots

Top Alternatives in Takeoff Software


Active Takeoff

Autodesk Takeoff

Bluebeam

Buildxact

Countfire

Esticom

eTakeoff

Methvin

On-Screen Takeoff

PlanSwift

PrebuiltML

Procore

STACK

Stratosphere

Takeoff Live

Related Categories

Head-to-Head Comparison

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