5 min read

ProEst Alternative for Subcontractors

If you're searching for a ProEst alternative, you probably fall into one of two groups. Either ProEst doesn't quite fit how a small trade contractor works, or you want to compare options before committing. This page is a fair, plain comparison. We describe ProEst only as its maker does on its own public website, and we explain where TradeBid fits differently. The best tool is the one that matches your workflow, and sometimes that's ProEst.

What ProEst is

ProEst is an Autodesk product. Autodesk's product page describes it as cloud-based estimating software that combines cost estimating, 2D takeoffs and bid-day analysis. Autodesk says ProEst is offered through its Forma for Preconstruction bundle. Autodesk has also announced that ProEst Desktop reaches end of life on December 31, 2026, and that ProEst Cloud continues (Autodesk notice). Source: ProEst's website. Features and pricing change, so always check the vendor's current pages before you decide.

When ProEst may be the better choice

If you're a larger general contractor or estimating department that wants a full preconstruction suite covering takeoff, estimating, bid management and subcontractor qualification, and you're comfortable with an enterprise bundle and a sales-led quote, ProEst and the Forma suite are built for that.

Where TradeBid is different

TradeBid is a lighter option for subcontractors who need to price their own scope and send a proposal. Prices are published on our pricing page, it runs in a browser, and you can start a trial without a sales call. If your ProEst Desktop license is ending and you only used it for trade bids, TradeBid is worth a look.

TradeBid was built for small and mid-size subcontractors who estimate their own work, often at night after a day on the job. The goal is simple: get from plans to a professional, itemized proposal quickly, while you keep full control of every number.

What TradeBid does

  • Upload plans as a PDF plan set, a scan or a photo, or type out the scope
  • Pick your trade: electrical, plumbing, HVAC, concrete, roofing, framing, drywall, painting, siding and more
  • Review an editable line-item bid with materials, labor and scope lines. Nothing is final until you approve it.
  • Export a branded PDF proposal with your logo and terms
  • Track bids on your dashboard
  • Takeoffs on Journeyman and Master. Master adds materials and invoicing.

TradeBid pricing

  • Apprentice: $149/mo or $1,490/yr, up to 5 bids a month, no takeoffs
  • Journeyman: $300/mo or $3,000/yr, unlimited bids, takeoffs
  • Master: $850/mo or $8,500/yr, adds materials and invoicing
  • Single bid: $100

Try TradeBid free for 7 days: every plan starts with a free trial that includes 3 bids and 1 takeoff. A card is required at checkout. Start for $0.00 or view a sample bid.

How to choose between them

Ask yourself these questions before you pick any tool:

  1. What do I actually do all day? If you mostly measure plans for someone else to price, a takeoff tool may be enough. If you measure, price and send the bid yourself, you need all three steps covered.
  2. Who am I bidding to? Subcontractors bidding to GCs need clear scope, inclusions and exclusions. Builders selling to homeowners need different things.
  3. How much setup can I handle? Bigger platforms can do more, but take longer to set up and learn.
  4. Is the price published? Published pricing makes comparing easier. If it isn't published, ask for a written quote.
  5. Can I try it on a real job? The only test that matters is running a plan set you already bid and comparing the result.

A fair side-by-side

| Question | ProEst | TradeBid | |---|---|---| | Main focus | See the vendor's description above | Bids for trade subcontractors: plans to editable line items to PDF proposal | | Runs in | See the vendor's system requirements | Any modern web browser (Mac, Windows, iPad) | | Published pricing | Check the vendor's website | Yes: $149, $300 or $850 a month, or $100 per bid | | Trial | Check the vendor's website | 7 days, up to 3 bids and 1 takeoff, card required | | Branded PDF proposal | Check the vendor's website | Yes |

We left the ProEst column general on purpose. We won't guess at another company's features or prices. Please confirm the details on their website.

Related reading

FAQ

Is TradeBid a direct replacement for ProEst? It depends on what you use ProEst for. If you use it to produce bids for your trade, TradeBid covers plans, an editable line-item bid and a PDF proposal. If you rely on features specific to ProEst, check whether you need them before switching.

Is TradeBid cheaper than ProEst? TradeBid's prices are published: Apprentice $149/mo, Journeyman $300/mo, Master $850/mo, or $100 for a single bid. Compare these against ProEst's current published pricing or a written quote.

Can I try TradeBid before switching? Yes. Try TradeBid free for 7 days: every plan starts with a free trial that includes 3 bids and 1 takeoff, with a card on file. Run a job you already bid and compare.

Can I try TradeBid free? Yes. Try TradeBid free for 7 days, with 3 bids and 1 takeoff included. A card is required at checkout ("Start for $0.00"), and you won't be charged if you cancel before the trial ends. After the trial, plans start at $149/mo, or you can buy a single bid for $100.

Does TradeBid work on a Mac? Yes. It runs in the browser on Mac, Windows and iPad.

Which trades does TradeBid support? Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, concrete, roofing, framing, drywall, painting, siding, landscaping and more.

Start for $0.00