Quick Comparison
Autodesk Takeoff is positioned as a takeoff product. Here is how it lines up against CyanBuild on the features contractors actually compare.
| Feature | Autodesk Takeoff | CyanBuild |
|---|---|---|
| AI takeoff from PDF | No | Yes, built in |
| Cost database | No | Yes, plus your own pricing |
| AIA G702/G703 billing | No | Yes, built in |
| Cloud-based | Varies | Yes |
| Pricing | Included in ACC Build (~$2,500–$2,800+/yr) or ACC Takeoff standalone (~$650/yr) | Credit-based, pay per use |
| All-in-one (takeoff + estimating + billing) | No | Yes |
Autodesk Takeoff pros and cons
Autodesk Takeoff pros
- 2D and 3D model takeoff in one tool
- Tight integration with ACC Docs, Revit, and AutoCAD
- Cloud-based with shared model access across the team
Autodesk Takeoff cons
- No true AI element detection from PDF
- Bundled in ACC — expensive if you only need takeoff
- Steep learning curve, especially for 3D model takeoff
- 2D counts and measurements are still largely manual
Why switch from Autodesk Takeoff to CyanBuild
- One platform for takeoff, estimating, and AIA billing instead of separate tools.
- AI takeoff from PDF — no manual clicking and counting.
- Credit-based pricing tracks your bid volume; you don't pay a fixed seat in slow months.
- Your estimate flows directly into AIA G702/G703 billing and sub management.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Autodesk Takeoff cost?
Autodesk Takeoff pricing: Autodesk Construction Cloud subscription; ACC Takeoff sold standalone or bundled with ACC Build.. Reported ranges are around Included in ACC Build (~$2,500–$2,800+/yr) or ACC Takeoff standalone (~$650/yr). CyanBuild uses credit-based, pay-per-use pricing, so your software cost tracks your bid volume instead of a fixed annual fee.
Does Autodesk Takeoff have AI takeoff?
Autodesk Takeoff relies on manual takeoff — clicking and counting each element. CyanBuild detects and counts doors, windows, walls, and other elements from your PDF automatically.
Can I replace Autodesk Takeoff with CyanBuild?
For takeoff and estimating, yes. CyanBuild also includes AIA G702/G703 billing and subcontractor management, which Autodesk Takeoff does not.
Is there a free alternative to Autodesk Takeoff?
CyanBuild offers free credits to start, so you can run real takeoffs before paying. That is usually a better test than a demo-only trial. Spreadsheets are "free" but error-prone and slow at scale.
Why switch from Autodesk Takeoff to CyanBuild?
CyanBuild combines AI takeoff, cost estimating, and AIA billing in one platform — one login, one data source — instead of stitching Autodesk Takeoff together with separate estimating and billing tools. You also pay per use instead of a fixed annual seat.