CyanBuild

CyanBuild vs Sage Estimating: Which is Better for AI Takeoff in 2026?

Quick Answer

Sage Estimating is a estimating tool with manual takeoff. CyanBuild differs by combining AI takeoff from PDF, cost estimating, and AIA G702/G703 billing in one platform, so you stop stitching separate tools together. Compare features, pricing, and scope below.

Quick Comparison

Sage Estimating is positioned as a estimating product. Here is how it lines up against CyanBuild on the features contractors actually compare.

FeatureSage EstimatingCyanBuild
AI takeoff from PDFNoYes, built in
Cost databaseYesYes, plus your own pricing
AIA G702/G703 billingNoYes, built in
Cloud-basedVariesYes
PricingEnterprise subscriptionFree: 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)NoYes

Sage Estimating pros and cons

Sage Estimating pros

  • Established estimating
  • Integration with Sage accounting
  • Cost data

Sage Estimating cons

  • No AI takeoff
  • Enterprise implementation
  • Accounting-suite coupling

Why switch from Sage Estimating 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 Sage Estimating cost?

Sage Estimating pricing: Sage construction suite. Reported pricing: Enterprise subscription. 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 Sage Estimating have AI takeoff?

Sage Estimating 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 Sage Estimating with CyanBuild?

For takeoff and estimating, yes. CyanBuild also includes AIA G702/G703 billing and subcontractor management, which Sage Estimating does not.

Is there a free alternative to Sage Estimating?

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 Sage Estimating to CyanBuild?

CyanBuild combines AI takeoff, cost estimating, and AIA billing in one platform. Compare its supported workflow with the features you use in Sage Estimating, then choose a monthly PDF page allowance that fits your workload. Verify quantities and rates before using them in a bid.

Review your takeoff with CyanBuild

Upload PDF plans and review AI-generated draft quantities. Check the drawings, scope, and rates before using them in a bid.

Try CyanBuild Free