Quick Comparison
Spreadsheet estimating is positioned as a estimating product. Here is how it lines up against CyanBuild on the features contractors actually compare.
| Feature | Spreadsheet estimating | 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 | Free / DIY | 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 |
Spreadsheet estimating pros and cons
Spreadsheet estimating pros
- Free and familiar
- Fully customizable
Spreadsheet estimating cons
- No AI takeoff
- Error-prone formulas
- No version control or audit trail
Why switch from Spreadsheet 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 Spreadsheet estimating cost?
Spreadsheet estimating pricing: DIY spreadsheets (Excel/Google Sheets). Reported pricing: Free / DIY. 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 Spreadsheet estimating have AI takeoff?
Spreadsheet 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 Spreadsheet estimating with CyanBuild?
For takeoff and estimating, yes. CyanBuild also includes AIA G702/G703 billing and subcontractor management, which Spreadsheet estimating does not.
Is there a free alternative to Spreadsheet 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 Spreadsheet 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 Spreadsheet estimating, then choose a monthly PDF page allowance that fits your workload. Verify quantities and rates before using them in a bid.