--- title: "Active Takeoff Software Pricing, Alternatives & More 2026 | Capterra" description: "With the help of Capterra, learn about Active Takeoff Software - reviews, pricing plans, popular comparisons to other Construction Estimating products and more." source_url: "https://www.capterra.com/p/137198/Active-Takeoff/" page_type: "product" language: "en" publication_date: "2026-10-19" --- # Active Takeoff Software Review 2026: Features, Integrations, Pros & Cons Last updated on October 19, 2026 Provider data verified by our Software Research team, and reviews moderated by our Reviews Verification team. [Description](#description)[Use cases](#use-cases)[Alternatives](#alternatives)[FAQs](#faqs)[Features](#features)[Pricing](#pricing)[Support](#support)[Reviews](#reviews) Active Takeoff ## What is Active Takeoff? Active Takeoff is an estimating and takeoff software for the construction industry, designed to simplify and streamline the process, boosting productivity. Its user-friendly interface allows quick setup, even for those with little software experience. The software supports various plan formats, including PDF and scanned plans, making document import easy. ## What is Active Takeoff used for? [Construction Estimating](https://www.capterra.com/construction-estimating-software/)[Other Construction Software](https://www.capterra.com/other-construction-software/)[Takeoff](https://www.capterra.com/takeoff-software/) Overall rating Based on 95 user reviews Reviews sentiment Positive 96% Neutral 4% Negative 0% Starting price $898 Flat Rate, One Time Free trial available Capterra Shortlist charts the highest-rated and most popular products... Our "Best of" badge program showcases products with the highest ratings... Our "Best of" badge program showcases products with the highest ratings... ## Active Takeoff alternatives Highest Rated [Groundplan](https://www.capterra.com/p/154585/Groundplan/) [4.8 (63)](https://www.capterra.com/p/154585/Groundplan/reviews/) Starting price $75.00 Per User, Per Month Pricing Options Free Trial Free Version User Rating 100% of reviewers rated it above 4 stars [Learn More](https://www.capterra.com/p/154585/Groundplan/) [4.5 (2,680)](https://www.capterra.com/p/56250/Procore/reviews/) Starting price Contact vendor for pricing Pricing Options Free Trial Free Version User Rating 94% of reviewers rated it above 4 stars [4.2 (304)](https://www.capterra.com/p/151681/RSMeans/reviews/) Starting price $396.00 Per User, Per Month Pricing Options Free Trial Free Version User Rating 85% of reviewers rated it above 4 stars [STACK](https://www.capterra.com/p/147181/STACK-Takeoff/) [4.5 (1,399)](https://www.capterra.com/p/147181/STACK-Takeoff/reviews/) Starting price $299.00 Per User, Per Month Pricing Options Free Trial Free Version User Rating 93% of reviewers rated it above 4 stars [Learn More](https://www.capterra.com/p/147181/STACK-Takeoff/) ## FAQs about Active Takeoff Overview ### What problems does Active Takeoff solve? Active Takeoff solves slow, error-prone manual quantity takeoffs and uncertain construction estimates by measuring PDF plans, calculating areas, slopes, runs, and material quantities, then producing marked-up reports and exports. Estimators, electrical contractors, roofers, remodelers, civil engineers, and quantity-surveying teams benefit from faster bid preparation, clearer plan documentation, and quantity checks before submitting quotes. Answer based on 46 reviews Overview ### Which roles and teams benefit most from Active Takeoff? Active Takeoff is most used by estimators, senior estimators, and quantity surveyors who measure plans, prepare material quantities, and build accurate bids. Owners, presidents, and directors use it to review estimating activity and support pricing decisions, while project managers and field operations teams coordinate takeoffs with project planning and execution. Answer based on 91 reviews Overview ### What company size and specific industries is Active Takeoff built for? Active Takeoff is designed for construction companies, general contractors, estimators, and flooring companies of all sizes. It is built for teams in construction-related industries that need takeoff tools for estimating and project planning. Features and Usability ### What are the key features of Active Takeoff? Active Takeoff includes core takeoff and cost estimating features for measuring quantities from electronic plans, calculating labor and material costs, and producing bids. Key capabilities include customizable templates, visual assemblies, job costing, proposal generation, and trade-specific estimating for electrical, HVAC, and plumbing work. Answer based on 45 reviews Overview ### How well does Active Takeoff work for construction estimating? Active Takeoff speeds up construction estimating with accurate quantity measurements, visual takeoffs, and shareable reports. Small contractors, estimators, and residential remodeling teams find it easier than manual scale measurements and appreciate PDF and spreadsheet workflows. Its pricing setup and full estimating functions may require manual input, while niche trade calculations and advanced general contractor needs can need workarounds. Answer based on 26 reviews Pricing ### How much does it cost and what fees or limitations are included? Active Takeoff starts at $898 as a one-time flat rate for one license, plus a $149 yearly fee. A free trial is available. Reviewers describe it as affordable versus similar tools, though some want discounted additional seats, report fewer features for complex work, and must manually enter material pricing. Answer based on 16 reviews Getting Started and Support ### How easy is it to onboard and train a team on Active Takeoff? Active Takeoff is generally easy to onboard, offering live online training, documentation, and videos. Reviewers report that estimators, contractors, and users new to digital takeoffs can begin working quickly, often with minimal instruction. Teams may need additional time to learn advanced estimating features, shortcuts, customization, and lesser-used functions. Answer based on 20 reviews Getting Started and Support ### What customer support options does Active Takeoff offer, and how do users rate the experience? Active Takeoff offers email/help desk, FAQ/forum, knowledge base, phone support, and chat. Users generally describe support as prompt, helpful, courteous, and easy to understand, with technicians resolving issues quickly. A few users report slower technical-support response times and would prefer more agile assistance. Answer based on 26 reviews Features and Usability ### What features does Active Takeoff include? Active Takeoff provides practical quantity takeoff features, but its customization and drawing tools have limits. Residential remodelers and trade contractors value its accessible core functions, templates, and reports. Some users want better file compatibility, layer editing, scaling choices, and specialized tools for framing, flooring, curves, and precise line placement. Answer based on 30 reviews ## Features AI summary Based on 2,362 Construction Estimating reviews Not all construction estimating software covers every feature buyers care about most. Here is what Capterra reviewers flag as essential when choosing a solution: - **Quotes/Estimates** (**62%** of reviewers rated this feature as critical) - **Multiple Projects** (**51%**) - **Takeoff** (**62%**) Active Takeoff includes **Takeoff**, which helps estimators measure materials and quantities directly from project plans. However, it does not offer **Quotes/Estimates** or **Multiple Projects**. Instead, it provides other highly rated capabilities, including **Cost Estimating** (**61%**) and **Job Costing** (**54%**). These features help businesses build more accurate budgets, track project expenses closely, and make better bidding decisions, giving teams clearer cost visibility throughout the estimating process. Takeoff 4.7 (3) 100.00% of 3 reviewers that rated this feature as important or highly important Measure digital plans to calculate labor and materials needed Job Costing 5.0 (2) 100.00% of 2 reviewers that rated this feature as important or highly important Calculate total itemized costs, including initial costs and any changes Cost Database 5.0 (2) 100.00% of 2 reviewers that rated this feature as important or highly important Collection of data related to the costs associated with various items, products, services, or activities Customizable Templates 4.5 (2) 100.00% of 2 reviewers that rated this feature as important or highly important Pre-designed layouts that can be customized to match preferences and requirements Proposal Generation 4.5 (2) 100.00% of 2 reviewers that rated this feature as important or highly important Create proposals based on costs of labor and materials Visual Assemblies 4.5 (2) 100.00% of 2 reviewers that rated this feature as important or highly important Displays a graphical view of a build assembly to visualize which portion of the project you're estimating Active Takeoff 14 features ### All Features - Assembly Takeoff: Estimate project costs based on groups of items and procedures - Cost Database: Collection of data related to the costs associated with various items, products, services, or activities - Cost Estimating: Forecast the cost and resources required to complete a project - Customizable Templates: Pre-designed layouts that can be customized to match preferences and requirements - Electrical Estimating: Estimating software designed for electrical businesses - Electronic Plans: Create and store all design plans electronically - Estimating: Estimate expected cost based on various factors before a project begins - For AEC Industry: Primarily serving architecture, engineering, and construction industry professionals - HVAC Estimating: Estimating software designed for HVAC businesses - Job Costing: Calculate total itemized costs, including initial costs and any changes - Plumbing Estimating: Estimating software designed for plumbing companies - Proposal Generation: Create proposals based on costs of labor and materials - Takeoff: Measure digital plans to calculate labor and materials needed - Visual Assemblies: Displays a graphical view of a build assembly to visualize which portion of the project you're estimating --- Get Advice We can help you find the software with the features you need. Features 4.4 (85) 4.4 Based on 85 reviews ## Pricing Value for money 4.6 (80) Free Trial Active Takeoff $898.00 Flat Rate,One Time Value for money 4.6 (80) 4.6 Based on 80 reviews Connect with a Capterra advisor for a free 15-minute consultation Get a personalized software list aligned to your business needs with guidance from our expert advisors. Our team has helped 1 million+ businesses like yours find options that fit their needs. ## Support, customer service and training options Customer Service 4.8 (77) Support - Email/Help Desk - FAQs/Forum - Knowledge Base - Phone Support - 24/7 (Live rep) - Chat Training - In Person - Live Online - Webinars - Documentation - Videos Deployment - Web - Android - iPhone/iPad Typical users - Freelancers - Small businesses - Mid size businesses - Enterprises Customer Service 4.8 (77) 4.8 Based on 77 reviews ## User reviews Overall rating 4.6 Based on 95 reviews Filter by rating 5(64) 4(27) 3(4) 2(0) 1(0) Mentioned topic Sorted by most recent MD Maykon D. Diretor Civil Engineering ### "Arkon-Active Takeoff" 4.0 Overall Rating 4.0 4.0 Ease of Use 3.0 3.0 Features 3.0 3.0 Customer Service 4.0 4.0 Likelihood to Recommend 8/10 September 6, 2023 No geral, o Active Takeoff é uma ferramenta completa que simplifica a estimativa de custos, otimiza o planejamento de projetos e melhora a eficiência do meu trabalho como engenheiro civil. Suas funcionalidades abrangentes atendem às necessidades específicas do setor de construção, tornando-o essencial para o sucesso de qualquer projeto. Pros Umas das funcionalidades que mais me agradou foi a estimativa de custos de mão de obra com ela posso calcular os custos de mão de obra de acordo com as especificações do projeto, outra funcionalidade muito boa ea geração de propostas que me permite criar propostas profissionais e personalizadas para cada clientes de maneira facil e rapida. Cons houve alguns aspectos que menos me agradaram na ultilização do Active Takeoff como problemas com o suporte técnico, com tempo de resposta lentos, um suporte técnico mais ágil e eficaz poderia melhorar a experiência do usuário. Review source Non-incentivized review: any software user can leave a review for any product listed on our site. All submitted reviews are subject to our verification process prior to publication. SA Sam A. owner/estimator Construction ### "The best software!" 5.0 Overall Rating 5.0 5.0 Ease of Use 5.0 5.0 Features 5.0 5.0 Customer Service 5.0 5.0 Likelihood to Recommend 10/10 November 22, 2021 I used to do the blueprints by hand, now I am using the extra time to spend with my family. I can get blueprints done in more than half the time now easily. Pros I trialed a handful of other companies and this is the one. It is very easy to use, simple interface, yet very robust and there are many features I have not used yet. This is not trade specific software. Cons I don't have any. You cant beat this product for the value and what it offers. Review source Non-incentivized review: any software user can leave a review for any product listed on our site. All submitted reviews are subject to our verification process prior to publication. JS Jack S. Estimator Construction ### "Really good." 5.0 Overall Rating 5.0 5.0 Ease of Use 5.0 5.0 Features 5.0 5.0 Customer Service 5.0 5.0 Likelihood to Recommend 8/10 October 13, 2021 Pros Easy and lightweight. Fast for basic use with more complicated options if needed. Cons LAck of some functions that I knew from other software. Review source Incentivized review: software users are invited to submit an honest review and offered a nominal incentive for their time and effort. All incentivized reviews are subject to our verification process prior to publication. NS Nathan S. Estimating & Business Development Construction ### "From Takeoff to Quote Within 5 Minutes" 5.0 Overall Rating 5.0 5.0 Ease of Use 5.0 5.0 Features 3.0 3.0 Customer Service 0.0 0.0 Likelihood to Recommend 10/10 January 19, 2021 Overall, the need for adding pricing manually (one time only and quickly done) is far outweighed by how quickly I can return a quote, the ease of .pdf reports I can pass to our purchaser, and the intuitiveness of entering basic information. For a smaller electrical contractor without a dedicated staff of estimators, Active Takeoff had dramatically increased my productivity. Pros The ease of importing plans from .pdf into the software is extremely intuitive. Active Takeoff allows a user to QUICKLY begin the process of plan takeoff. I am literally able to take a bid set from a prime contractor and return a price quote in half the time some of the more robust and expensive "industry standard" software takes. Cons The pricing for materials needs to be manually input . There is an import function but none of my material suppliers support the format Active Takeoff uses. It can take a few extra minutes to update prices or add a new device. Switched from [McCormick Electrical Estimating](https://www.capterra.com/p/165314/Electrical-Estimating-Software/) Our McCormick software was too robust. The task of simply entering basic information and importing a small bid set took nearly an hour. Then afterward, I had to wade through so much functionality that I couldn't efficiently perform the simplest task of counting devices or measuring conduit/wire runs. It was simply NOT simple to use. Alternatives considered [ProEst](https://www.capterra.com/p/8684/ProEst/) [Clear Estimates](https://www.capterra.com/p/24826/Clear-Estimates/) [STACK](https://www.capterra.com/p/147181/STACK-Takeoff/) Reasons for choosing Active Takeoff After using the trial version, Active Takeoff lived up to it's claims to have a user estimating in 5 minutes. It was so intuitive, produced easy to understand reports, and added more value to others in our small company than the other options. Review source Incentivized review: software users are invited to submit an honest review and offered a nominal incentive for their time and effort. All incentivized reviews are subject to our verification process prior to publication. JM Joe M. Installation Services Manager Construction ### "Takeoffs" 5.0 Overall Rating 5.0 5.0 Ease of Use 5.0 5.0 Features 5.0 5.0 Customer Service 0.0 0.0 Likelihood to Recommend 8/10 August 27, 2020 ease of doing takeoffs Pros Its easy to takeoff for the products we represent Cons The final take off quantities could be a little easier to read. Review source Non-incentivized review: any software user can leave a review for any product listed on our site. All submitted reviews are subject to our verification process prior to publication. RH Richard H. VP Construction ### "Very good Product Excellent customer service" 5.0 Overall Rating 5.0 5.0 Ease of Use 5.0 5.0 Features 5.0 5.0 Customer Service 5.0 5.0 Likelihood to Recommend 10/10 April 30, 2020 Doing an extremely large takeoff Had a good hour of questions \[SENSITIVE CONTENT HIDDEN\] walked me threw it. I recommend that if you have a question you call. He solved all my questions without hesitation. He is extremely knowledgeable of the product. I will recommend this software to my friends. Pros Easy to use. Easy to get started with this software. Customer service is awesome. Cons Could use more templates. For instance Square Yards. Review source Non-incentivized review: any software user can leave a review for any product listed on our site. All submitted reviews are subject to our verification process prior to publication. JR Joseph R. Owner Construction ### "What a great company and software" 5.0 Overall Rating 5.0 5.0 Ease of Use 5.0 5.0 Features 5.0 5.0 Customer Service 5.0 5.0 Likelihood to Recommend 10/10 February 17, 2020 Perfect. Pros I called today for support. I spoke to the original person who designed the software in 2014. I found out I was one of the first 20 customers to purchase it in the United States. I cannot tell you how happy I have been with this software and the customer service. Incredible. Joe Cons Nothing it works great once you build your formulas. Review source Non-incentivized review: any software user can leave a review for any product listed on our site. All submitted reviews are subject to our verification process prior to publication. CH Carlos H. Estimator Construction ### "Bids made easier" 4.0 Overall Rating 4.0 4.0 Ease of Use 4.0 4.0 Features 4.0 4.0 Customer Service 0.0 0.0 Likelihood to Recommend 8/10 June 27, 2019 We get alot new construction PDF's plans and have to find measurements.Using the measuring tool on the rooflines on Active take off is so much easier than trying to enlarge the page or finding small hidden numbers which is hard on the eyes after a while. Pros PDF Plans can be uploaded and converted to measure Cons Overall its a great program , I had a little trouble trying to determining the scale. It could be more user friendly. Review source Incentivized review: software users are invited to submit an honest review and offered a nominal incentive for their time and effort. All incentivized reviews are subject to our verification process prior to publication. MS michel S. President Construction ### "awsome software" 5.0 Overall Rating 5.0 5.0 Ease of Use 5.0 5.0 Features 5.0 5.0 Customer Service 5.0 5.0 Likelihood to Recommend 10/10 June 19, 2019 Pros EASE OF USE EASY TO IMPORT PLANS EASY TO EXPORT TO EXCEL FUN TO USE VERY ACCURATE. Cons NONE AS OF YET NO REAL CONS FOR NOW IFIND IT REALLY EASY TO USE. Review source Vendor Referred - Incentive Offered: This reviewer was invited by the software vendor to submit an honest review and offered a nominal incentive as a thank you. AN Anonymous User Estimator Construction ### "Active Takeoff review" 5.0 Overall Rating 5.0 5.0 Ease of Use 5.0 5.0 Features 5.0 5.0 Customer Service 5.0 5.0 Likelihood to Recommend 10/10 May 8, 2019 Pros Ease of use, and the awesome back-up service. Cons Nothing - so far. Review source Vendor Referred - Incentive Offered: This reviewer was invited by the software vendor to submit an honest review and offered a nominal incentive as a thank you. [View all Reviews](https://www.capterra.com/p/137198/Active-Takeoff/reviews/) ## Top-rated software of 2026 ### Fill out the form and we'll send a list of the top-rated software based on real user reviews directly to your inbox.