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 Solo $12.99/mo · Team $49.99/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.
Sources and comparison method
We compare the products' published capabilities with the Solid Takeoff features and prices shown on this site. Vendor products change, so use the linked first-party sources to confirm a detail before buying.
Working on a Mac? Most desktop takeoff tools are Windows-only — see takeoff software for Mac for the options that actually run on macOS.
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.