Accurate estimates are the backbone of any successful electrical contracting business. With projects becoming increasingly complex and timelines tighter than ever, relying on outdated methods like spreadsheets and manual calculations is no longer enough.
Electrical estimating software is a game-changer, empowering contractors to create detailed estimates faster, more accurately, and with less hassle.
For contractors looking to streamline their processes and gain a competitive advantage, this blog compares two of the top contenders in the industry: Best Bid Electrical Estimating Software and Conest IntelliBid. By breaking down their features, pricing, and usability, we’ll show you why Best Bid stands out as the superior choice for electrical contractors seeking a reliable, affordable, and user-friendly estimating solution.
Understanding the Basics of Each Software
Conest IntelliBid Electrical Estimating Software
Conest’s IntelliBid is a robust estimating platform designed for electrical, datacom, low-voltage, and solar projects. With its customizable database, automatic labor factoring, and powerful reporting tools, IntelliBid caters to contractors handling a variety of project sizes and scopes.
Key Features of Conest IntelliBid:
- Customizable Database: Offers access to one of the largest databases of items and pre-built assemblies in the industry.
- Material Price Updates: Integrates external pricing services like NetPricer®, EPIC®, and TRA-SER® for up-to-date material costs.
- Auto-Labor Factoring: Automatically adjusts labor estimates based on project scope and complexity.
- Multiple Editions: Available in Standard, Plus, and Pro editions, catering to different levels of needs and budgets.
While Conest is a powerful tool, customer feedback often points to its complexity, which leads to a steeper learning curve. Additionally, the reliance on third-party tools for takeoffs and recurring costs for updates and support can significantly increase long-term expenses.
Best Bid Electrical Estimating Software
Built for electrical contractors, Best Bid takes usability, accuracy, and affordability to a whole new level. The two flagship products, Best Bid Next Generation and Hybrid Pro, are designed to provide contractors with everything they need to deliver fast, precise estimates and scale their businesses.
Key Features of Best Bid:
- Built-in On-Screen Takeoff: Unlike Conest, Best Bid includes this critical feature, eliminating the need for external tools.
- Lifetime Updates and Support: Avoid hidden fees with a one-time purchase price, no recurring costs, and free updates and technical support for life.
- Custom Assemblies: Create unique material groups tailored to any project in seconds, with an unlimited database size.
- User-Friendly Interface: Designed specifically with electrical contractors in mind, Best Bid accelerates learning and minimizes the effort required to create accurate estimates.
- Affordability: A transparent pricing model makes Best Bid half the cost of many competing estimating solutions.
With its tailored approach and dedication to delivering maximum value, Best Bid simplifies the estimating process while providing industry-leading support and tools.
Feature Comparison
Customization and Databases
- Conest IntelliBid offers a large customizable database and the ability to import price data from NetPricer®, EPIC®, and TRA-SER®. While functional, this reliance on external services often leads to additional costs and steps in the estimating process.
- Best Bid matches Conest’s robust database capabilities with intuitive tools for creating custom assemblies and an unlimited database size. This flexibility empowers contractors to tailor the software precisely to their needs while simplifying the process.
User Interface & Ease of Use
- Conest features a more traditional layout, which some users find outdated and challenging to adapt to. Its complexity requires a longer onboarding period and ongoing training.
- Best Bid sets itself apart with a clean, minimalist design that mirrors how electricians naturally think and work. The intuitive interface significantly reduces the learning curve, allowing contractors to start creating estimates quickly and confidently.
On-Screen Takeoff
- Best Bid includes a built-in On-Screen Takeoff feature, allowing users to perform digitized takeoffs directly within the platform without relying on third-party tools. This saves time and money while ensuring seamless integration with your estimates.
- Conest, on the other hand, does not include an integrated takeoff feature. Users must purchase additional software, such as SureCount, which adds complexity and expense to the estimating process.
Pricing Models and Support
Conest Pricing
Conest IntelliBid uses a tiered pricing model based on the chosen edition (Standard, Plus, or Pro). However, each edition comes with recurring fees for updates, licenses, and technical support, quickly driving up the total cost of ownership. Conest’s lack of transparency around pricing often leaves contractors uncertain about their long-term financial commitment.
Best Bid Pricing
Best Bid offers one of the most straightforward pricing models in the industry. With a one-time purchase cost, contractors gain lifetime access to the software, including free updates, unlimited licenses, and 24/7 technical support.
Best Bid is designed to be an affordable yet premium choice, delivering unmatched value without hidden fees or ongoing expenses.
Pricing Snapshot:
- Best Bid Next Generation: $2,500 (one-time purchase)
- Best Bid Hybrid Pro: $1,995.95 (one-time purchase)
Real-World Performance
Customer Experiences with Conest
While Conest receives praise for its robust database and detailed estimates, reviews often mention frustrations with its complexity and reliance on costly add-ons. Users commonly highlight its steep learning curve, making it less approachable for new contractors or small businesses.
Customer Experiences with Best Bid
Best Bid has consistently earned glowing reviews for its simplicity, affordability, and exceptional customer support. Users appreciate the fast learning curve and ability to create accurate estimates without spending hours on training or troubleshooting issues.
Customer Quote:
“Best Bid is the most important tool I own. It’s fast, accurate, and their team genuinely cares,” says Allen Briggs, a long-time customer.
Why Best Bid is Superior to Conest
When comparing these two platforms, Best Bid outshines Conest in key areas:
- Efficiency: Built-in On-Screen Takeoff saves time and eliminates reliance on external tools.
- Affordability: No recurring costs, lifetime updates, and free support make Best Bid a cost-effective solution.
- Ease of Use: A sleek, intuitive interface enables faster onboarding and more efficient workflows.
- Customer Support: Best Bid delivers personal, responsive support that contractors rave about.
These features make Best Bid the clear winner for electrical contractors and estimators seeking a reliable, powerful, and affordable estimating solution.
Who Should Choose the Best Bid?
Whether you’re a seasoned electrical estimator handling multi-million-dollar projects or a small contractor looking to grow your business, Best Bid has a solution for you:
- Best Bid Next Generation is ideal for experienced professionals requiring advanced features and control.
- Best Bid Hybrid Pro is perfect for contractors who prioritize speed, simplicity, and efficiency.
From small-scale jobs to large-scale projects, Best Bid caters to contractors at every level, providing the flexibility and value needed to thrive in today’s competitive market.
Experience the Best Bid for Yourself
Choosing the right electrical estimating software can have a profound impact on your business’s success. With superior affordability, unmatched accuracy, and world-class support, Best Bid stands head and shoulders above Conest.
Don’t just take our word for it. See Best Bid in action today! Book a demo or call us now at 800-941-7028.
