Portravo vs On-Screen Takeoff
Choose the tool around the work you do most. On-Screen Takeoff gives an estimator direct measurement tools, plan overlays, optional AI Takeoff Boost, and a path into Quick Bid. Portravo starts with an AI draft from a plan PDF, requires you to confirm each quantity, then prices confirmed lines with a dated reference basis.
Independent comparison from public vendor documentation, checked September 24, 2026. No measured speed or accuracy claim is made here.
Where each tool makes sense
Use Portravo when
- You bid a few residential or light-commercial jobs between running the work.
- You want an initial quantity list to review before pricing, with each material line's source and date visible.
- Local material prices where available, with labeled benchmark fallbacks for unmatched items, give you a starting point while you confirm supplier quotes.
Use On-Screen Takeoff when
- An estimator needs to draw, measure, and adjust lengths, areas, and counts directly on the plans.
- Plan overlays and a configurable, trade-specific measurement workflow matter to your team.
- You need broader trade coverage, or priced HVAC equipment, which Portravo does not price.
The working differences
Scroll the table sideways to read both workflows and the vendor sources.
| Decision | Portravo | On-Screen Takeoff |
|---|---|---|
| Working from the plan | Upload a PDF. Review, edit, confirm, or reject each extracted line before it can be priced. | Measure lengths, areas, and counts on digital plans; Takeoff Boost can create an AI first pass. ConstructConnect product page |
| From quantity to bid | Confirmed lines use available local material prices or labeled benchmark fallbacks and your own labor rate card, then export to Excel or PDF. | Use the Estimate Tab for a rough unit-cost estimate, link quantities to Excel, or connect to Quick Bid. ConstructConnect pricing options |
| Software cost to check | Upload plans and see the price before you pay: $75 per takeoff or a monthly plan, with a 14-day money-back guarantee on the first takeoff. See current Portravo pricing. | Licensing varies by need. Ask ConstructConnect for a current quote and test the available trial. ConstructConnect product page |
Portravo facts come from its published workflow, current pricing, and worked estimate example. Supplier prices and vendor plans can change; check them for your actual bid.
Run one fair trial.
- Choose one representative plan revision and list the trades and exclusions before either tool opens it.
- Check uncertain quantities, unit conversions, and one current supplier quote in both workflows.
- Compare the resulting line-item evidence, revision handling, time you spent, and what the customer actually receives.
Keep your own estimate record.
This blank workbook tracks quantity, unit cost, price source, as-of date, and exclusions. It has no prefilled market prices or assumed accuracy figures.