Solid Takeoff vs eTakeoff
In short
eTakeoff is a Windows desktop takeoff tool, well known for integrating with Sage Estimating. Solid Takeoff is browser-based — it runs on Mac, PC, Chromebook and iPad with nothing to install — and starts free.
eTakeoff (Dimension, plus the AI-assisted Bid) is established desktop takeoff software, popular with teams that estimate in Sage thanks to its integration.
It's Windows desktop software, though. If you're on a Mac, want nothing to install, or just want to start free, Solid Takeoff does the take-off in the browser and exports a CSV for whatever you estimate in.
| Solid Takeoff | eTakeoff | |
|---|---|---|
| Runs on | Any browser — Mac, Windows, Chromebook, iPad | Windows desktop |
| Install | None | Per-machine install |
| Free plan | Yes — every tool | Desktop tiers; check vendor |
| Pricing | Free, or Pro ~$29/user/mo | Licensed (+ paid upgrades) |
| Estimating link | CSV into any estimate/spreadsheet | Integrates with Sage Estimating |
| Real-time collaboration | Yes — live co-editing + presence | Desktop files |
| Best for | Any device, quick takeoff | Windows teams estimating in Sage |
Browser vs Windows desktop
eTakeoff installs on Windows. On a Mac that means a VM; on a Chromebook or iPad it's a non-starter. Solid Takeoff runs in the browser on all of them, with nothing to install or update.
Your take-offs save to the cloud, so they're on every device you sign into — office and site.
Getting numbers into your estimate
eTakeoff's strength is its Sage Estimating link. If you don't estimate in Sage, that's less relevant — Solid Takeoff exports a clean CSV that drops into a spreadsheet or any estimating tool, plus an annotated PDF for the record.
The verdict
If you estimate in Sage on Windows, eTakeoff's integration is a real draw. If you want browser-based takeoff that runs on a Mac with no install and a free start, Solid Takeoff is the modern alternative.
Frequently asked questions
Does eTakeoff run on Mac?
eTakeoff is Windows desktop software; Mac users would virtualize it. Solid Takeoff runs natively in any browser on macOS, Windows, Chromebook and iPad.
Is Solid Takeoff an eTakeoff alternative?
For browser-based 2D takeoff with CSV export, yes — no install, runs on Mac, free to start. eTakeoff's edge is its tight Sage Estimating integration.
Can I get my quantities into my estimate?
Yes — export a CSV that opens in Excel or your estimating software. eTakeoff integrates directly with Sage Estimating if that's your workflow.
Is there a free version?
Solid Takeoff has a genuinely free plan. eTakeoff has offered desktop tiers with paid upgrades — check the vendor for current details.
Try it on your own plan — free
Open a PDF and measure in your browser. No card, no install, no CAD. Free plan forever.
Comparison based on publicly available information at the time of writing; competitor features and pricing change — check each vendor for current details. All product names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners and are used here for identification and comparison only.