Quick Comparison
PlanSwift is positioned as a takeoff product. Here is how it lines up against CyanBuild on the features contractors actually compare.
Vendor documentation checked 2026-10-01: PlanSwift Auto Takeoff; PlanSwift plans; PlanSwift installation requirements. Feature availability depends on the subscription. This is a documentation comparison, not an independent performance benchmark.
| Feature | PlanSwift | CyanBuild |
|---|---|---|
| AI takeoff from PDF | Yes | Yes, built in |
| Cost database | No | Yes, plus your own pricing |
| AIA G702/G703 billing | No | Yes, built in |
| Cloud-based | Varies | Yes |
| Pricing | Essential $2,000/year; Core $3,000/year (one seat) | 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 |
PlanSwift pros and cons
PlanSwift pros
- Takeoff and estimating with assemblies
- Takeoff BOOST AI tools, with Auto Takeoff in Core
- Editable AI output alongside manual measurements
PlanSwift cons
- Windows desktop application
- AI feature access depends on subscription
- Draft quantities still require estimator review
Why switch from PlanSwift to CyanBuild
- One platform for takeoff, estimating, and AIA billing instead of separate tools.
- CyanBuild's AI detection is built in and central, not a bolt-on.
- 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 PlanSwift cost?
PlanSwift pricing: Annual subscription. Core includes Auto Takeoff; Essential includes Auto Count, Auto Scale, and Auto Bookmark. Reported pricing: Essential $2,000/year; Core $3,000/year (one seat). 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 PlanSwift have AI takeoff?
PlanSwift offers some AI-assisted takeoff, but scope and accuracy vary by plan quality. CyanBuild's AI detection is built in and central to the workflow.
Can I replace PlanSwift with CyanBuild?
For takeoff and estimating, yes. CyanBuild also includes AIA G702/G703 billing and subcontractor management, which PlanSwift does not.
Is there a free alternative to PlanSwift?
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 PlanSwift to CyanBuild?
CyanBuild combines AI takeoff, cost estimating, and AIA billing in one platform. Compare its supported workflow with the features you use in PlanSwift, then choose a monthly PDF page allowance that fits your workload. Verify quantities and rates before using them in a bid.