Accurate electrical estimating is one of the most critical aspects of running a successful electrical contracting business.
For independent contractors, the right estimating software can mean the difference between winning bids and losing to competitors. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which is the best fit for your business?
Our team of licensed estimators tested and reviewed the top five electrical estimating software solutions based on real-world criteria. From ease of use to cost-effectiveness, we’ve left no stone unturned.
Here’s how each tool stacks up and why Best Bid Electrical Estimating Software emerged as the clear winner.
Do you need expert advice on choosing the best estimating tool for your business? Call 800-941-7028 to speak with a licensed estimator today!
Evaluation Criteria
To help contractors find the best software for their needs, we evaluated the top solutions against the following criteria:
Key Factors We Considered
Ease of Use: How straightforward is the software to set up and use right out of the box? The clear winner is Best Bid. The default setting will put you on target right out of the box. Basically, all you do is enter your quantities.
Flexibility: Can the tool be customized to fit different estimating workflows? Again, Best Bid has designed their software to be modified. Every result can easily be changed.
Detailed Assemblies: Does it include prebuilt assemblies that cover everything from fixtures to small parts like screws? Best Bids Assemblies are all-inclusive down to the screws.
Technical Support: How available and responsive is the customer support team? Best Bid, hands down, has thebest support handled by qualified estimators
Speed: How quickly can users generate precise estimates with minimal keystrokes? Best Bid completes an estimate with the fewest keystrokes possible.
Database Quality: Does the software offer up-to-date pricing databases? All software has adequate databases.
Material Updates: How frequently is material pricing updated, and at what cost? All software uses NetPricer and Trade Services. EBM uses Epic. Best Bid uses Real Time Pricing, which is by far the least expensive, and NetPricer.
On-Screen Takeoff Functionality: Does the software enable easy takeoffs directly from PDF plans? Accubid and McCormick have a multi-page Auto Count. EBM does not offer Auto Count, and Best Bid offers a single-page Auto Count.
Cost: Is the pricing fair, and does it include hidden fees for licenses or updates? Best Bid is the only one that offers a one-time fee with no recurring fees, unlimited licenses, and free support. The cost is about 1/3 or less.
Cloud and Server Version Availability: Does the software offer both cloud-based and server-hosted options? Best Biddoes not offer a cloud version and never will. They believe in a one-time fee.
Take the first step in simplifying your estimates. Call 800-941-7028 and see why Best Bid stands out from the competition.
Software Options Reviewed
Here’s a deep dive into how each tool performed in our review, ranked from best to worst.
1. Best Bid Electrical Estimating Software
Best Bid consistently topped our evaluation with impressive scores across nearly all criteria.
Why Contractors Love It?
Top scores in ease of use, flexibility, and detailed assemblies
Single-page Auto Count and real-time pricing features
One-time purchase fee with no recurring costs
Unlimited licenses and free lifetime support
Best Bid is the best choice for contractors seeking a cost-effective, user-friendly solution without recurring fees.
Need budget-friendly software with no monthly fees? Call 800-941-7028 to learn more about Best Bid.
Accubid Electrical Estimating Software
Accubid is a solid choice for contractors managing multi-location businesses.
Highlights
Excellent server version functionality and on-screen takeoff capabilities
Downsides
Higher cost compared to competitors
Less competitive support
3. McCormick
McCormick stands out with robust server and cloud version options, making it ideal for teams requiring flexibility.
Pros
High marks in cloud versions and database capabilities
Cons
Slower software speed
Limited flexibility
4. EBM
EBM received some of the lowest scores in our evaluation due to its lack of features essential to modern estimating workflows.
Weaknesses
Poor on-screen takeoff functionality
Limited detailed assemblies
Uses Epic for Pricing
5. Conest
Conest offers a balanced approach but fails to excel in any specific area.
Strengths
Cloud version available
Decent technical support
Weakness
Lacks standout features
Final Score Comparison
Score from 1–10 (10 being the best)
Criteria
Accubid
Best Bid
McCormick
EBM
Conest
Ease of Use
5
10
4
9
8
Flexibility
5
9
4
4
4
Detailed Assemblies
7
9
6
2
6
Server Version
10
7
10
7
7
Technical Support
5
10
6
5
7
Speed
6
10
4
6
6
Database
8
8
8
8
8
Cloud Versions
10
0
10
0
8
Material Updates
6
7
6
6
6
On-Screen Takeoff
9
8
9
2
6
Cost
4
10
4
5
7
TotalScore
75
88
71
54
73
Still undecided? Call our team of experts at 800-941-7028. We’ll help you pick the right software solution for your business.
Best Bid’s intuitive design ensures that even first-time users can quickly create accurate estimates. Just input your quantities and go.
Unmatched Flexibility
Modify assemblies, adjust settings, and customize results effortlessly to fit your unique projects.
Detailed Assemblies
Best Bid includes comprehensive, prebuilt assemblies covering everything down to the screws.
Real-Time Pricing
Stay competitive with up-to-the-minute pricing through the industry’s most cost-effective material update system.
Cost-Effective
Best Bid offers a one-time fee (less than ⅓ of competitors’ pricing), free updates, and unlimited licenses.
Join thousands of contractors who trust Best Bid. Call 800-941-7028 or visit our YouTube channel for a demo.
Choose Software That Fits Your Business
When selecting electrical estimating software, it is vital to choose a tool that aligns with your business model. While every tool on this list has strengths, Best Bid is the most contractor-friendly and value-driven option.
Don’t leave your estimates up to chance. Whether bidding on small local projects or managing large-scale operations, Best Bid can simplify your process and improve accuracy.
Take the guesswork out of estimating. Call 800-941-7028today and discover why Best Bid is the industry leader.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How does electrical takeoff software improve project accuracy?
Electrical takeoff software improves project accuracy by automating the material and labor quantification process, minimizing human errors and ensuring consistent estimating across all projects.
How does electrical estimating software streamline workflows?
Electrical estimating software streamlines workflows by providing integrated on-screen takeoff, real-time material pricing, and precise man-hour estimates, boosting efficiency and accuracy in the bidding process.
Can electrical takeoff software integrate with existing workflows?
Yes, Best Bid's electrical takeoff software can seamlessly integrate with existing workflows, allowing electrical contractors to streamline their estimating and bidding processes.
What is the cost of electrical takeoff software for small businesses?
The cost of electrical takeoff software for small businesses with Best Bid ranges from $995 to $2,995 per user, depending on the software package and features selected.
Is electrical takeoff software user-friendly for non-technical users?
The electrical takeoff software offered by Best Bid is designed to be user-friendly for non-technical users, providing an intuitive interface and step-by-step guidance to streamline the estimating process for electrical contractors.
What kind of customer support does electrical takeoff software offer?
Electrical takeoff software from Best Bid offers comprehensive customer support, including lifetime software updates, technical assistance, and personalized training to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance for electrical contractors.
Can electrical takeoff software handle complex electrical systems?
Yes, the Best Bid electrical takeoff software can handle complex electrical systems. The software offers advanced features, including integrated on-screen takeoff, real-time material pricing, and precise man-hour estimates, to streamline the bidding process for complex electrical projects.
What is the best electrical takeoff software for construction projects?
Best Bid delivers top-rated Electrical Estimating Software, offering affordable, accurate, and easy-to-use solutions for Electrical Contractors across the USA and Canada.
How does electrical takeoff software reduce project timelines?
Electrical takeoff software reduces project timelines by automating the quantification of materials, minimizing manual calculations, and providing real-time pricing updates, leading to faster and more accurate estimates.
What are the benefits of using electrical takeoff software?
The benefits of using electrical takeoff software include increased accuracy, efficiency, and cost savings in the estimating process for electrical contractors. The software provides integrated on-screen takeoff, real-time material pricing, and precise man-hour estimates to streamline the bidding workflow.
Can electrical takeoff software reduce estimating errors?
Electrical takeoff software can significantly reduce estimating errors by automating material calculations, integrating real-time pricing, and providing precise man-hour estimates, streamlining the bidding process for electrical contractors.
How does electrical takeoff software improve collaboration among teams?
Electrical takeoff software improves collaboration among teams by enabling real-time data sharing, streamlining communication, and providing a centralized platform for project management, leading to increased efficiency and reduced errors in the estimating process.
What features should I look for in electrical takeoff software?
When looking for electrical takeoff software, key features to consider include integrated on-screen takeoff, real-time material pricing, precise man-hour estimates, and compatibility with industry-leading platforms like NetPricer.
How does electrical takeoff software enhance accuracy?
Electrical takeoff software enhances accuracy by providing automated measurements, real-time material pricing, and precise man-hour estimates, streamlining the bidding process and reducing the risk of human errors.
What features improve project management in estimating software?
The key features that improve project management in estimating software include integrated on-screen takeoff, real-time material pricing, and precise man-hour estimates to streamline the bidding process.
How can I choose the right estimating software?
Choosing the right estimating software involves considering features like accuracy, ease of use, cost, and integration with your existing workflow. Best Bid's Electrical Estimating Software offers affordable, user-friendly solutions with integrated takeoff, material pricing, and precise man-hour estimates to streamline your bidding process.
What integrations are available for electrical takeoff software?
The Best Bid electrical takeoff software integrates with industry-leading platforms such as NetPricer for real-time material pricing updates, enabling seamless workflow and accurate cost estimates.
How does estimating software support project budgeting?
Electrical estimating software supports project budgeting by providing accurate material pricing, detailed labor estimates, and comprehensive cost analysis, enabling electrical contractors to create precise project budgets.
What training is available for using takeoff software?
Best Bid offers comprehensive training resources for using their takeoff software, including on-demand video tutorials, live webinars, and personalized support from their experienced team to ensure seamless software implementation and usage.
How can takeoff software assist in project planning?
Takeoff software can assist in project planning by providing accurate material takeoffs, labor estimates, and cost projections, enabling more precise budgeting and scheduling for electrical projects.
What are the latest trends in electrical estimating software?
The latest trends in electrical estimating software include integrated on-screen takeoff, real-time material pricing, and precise man-hour estimates to streamline the bidding process for electrical contractors.
How does software impact team collaboration on projects?
Software can enhance team collaboration on projects by facilitating real-time data sharing, task tracking, and communication, enabling seamless workflow and improved project management.
What are common challenges with electrical takeoff software?
Common challenges with electrical takeoff software include complexity, inaccurate material pricing, lack of integration with other systems, and difficulty in adapting to new software. The solution is to use intuitive, affordable, and well-integrated electrical estimating software.
How can I maximize efficiency with estimating software?
The benefits of using estimating software to maximize efficiency are streamlining the bidding process, improving accuracy through integrated takeoff and real-time pricing, and boosting productivity with advanced computerized estimating.
What security features should electrical software include?
Electrical estimating software should include robust security features such as user authentication, data encryption, and backup capabilities to protect sensitive project information and client data.
How does software affect project cost estimation accuracy?
The use of specialized electrical estimating software can significantly improve project cost estimation accuracy by automating calculations, integrating material pricing, and providing comprehensive historical data, leading to more reliable and precise estimates.
What are user reviews saying about this software?
User reviews praise Best Bid's Electrical Estimating Software for its affordability, accuracy, and ease of use, helping electrical contractors streamline their bidding process and boost efficiency.
How can takeoff software improve bid competitiveness?
Takeoff software can improve bid competitiveness by providing accurate and detailed cost estimates, streamlining the estimating process, and enabling contractors to submit more competitive bids.
What updates are essential for electrical estimating software?
Essential updates for electrical estimating software include new material pricing, updated labor and equipment costs, changes to building codes and regulations, and integration with the latest CAD/BIM software and databases.
How does software facilitate compliance in electrical projects?
The software facilitates compliance in electrical projects by providing integrated on-screen takeoff, real-time material pricing, and precise man-hour estimates to streamline the bidding process and ensure accurate, compliant project estimates.
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Best Bid Electrical Estimating Software outshines the competition in nearly every aspect. Here’s why it’s the go-to choice for contractors:
Best Bid Electrical Estimating Software outshines the competition in nearly every aspect. Here’s why it’s the go-to choice for contractors:
