Quick Comparison
Clear Estimates is positioned as a estimating product. Here is how it lines up against CyanBuild on the features contractors actually compare.
| Feature | Clear Estimates | CyanBuild |
|---|---|---|
| AI takeoff from PDF | No | Yes, built in |
| Cost database | Yes | Yes, plus your own pricing |
| AIA G702/G703 billing | No | Yes, built in |
| Cloud-based | Varies | Yes |
| Pricing | Subscription, contact for pricing | Free: 3 PDF pages per month; Starter: $29/month for 30 PDF pages; Pro: $99/month for 120 PDF pages; Enterprise: $299/month for 400 PDF pages |
| All-in-one (takeoff + estimating + billing) | No | Yes |
Clear Estimates pros and cons
Clear Estimates pros
- Template-based residential estimates
- Built-in cost data
- Easy onboarding
Clear Estimates cons
- No AI takeoff
- Residential focus
- Limited commercial scope
Why switch from Clear Estimates to CyanBuild
- One platform for takeoff, estimating, and AIA billing instead of separate tools.
- AI takeoff from PDF — no manual clicking and counting.
- Monthly PDF page allowances: Free: 3 PDF pages per month; Starter: $29/month for 30 PDF pages; Pro: $99/month for 120 PDF pages; Enterprise: $299/month for 400 PDF pages. Check current plan features and terms.
- Your estimate flows directly into AIA G702/G703 billing and sub management.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Clear Estimates cost?
Clear Estimates pricing: Cloud subscription. Reported pricing: Subscription, contact for pricing. Confirm the vendor's current terms. CyanBuild uses monthly subscriptions with page allowances: Free: 3 PDF pages per month; Starter: $29/month for 30 PDF pages; Pro: $99/month for 120 PDF pages; Enterprise: $299/month for 400 PDF pages. Paid subscriptions renew even when usage is low; see /pricing for current features and terms.
Does Clear Estimates have AI takeoff?
Clear Estimates 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 Clear Estimates with CyanBuild?
For takeoff and estimating, yes. CyanBuild also includes AIA G702/G703 billing and subcontractor management, which Clear Estimates does not.
Is there a free alternative to Clear Estimates?
CyanBuild's Free plan includes 3 PDF pages each month without a credit card. Use a representative drawing, check the detected quantities against your plan, and compare the review work before choosing a paid monthly plan.
Why switch from Clear Estimates to CyanBuild?
CyanBuild combines AI takeoff, cost estimating, and AIA billing in one platform. Compare its supported workflow with the features you use in Clear Estimates, then choose a monthly PDF page allowance that fits your workload. Verify quantities and rates before using them in a bid.