# RIB CostX Reviews 2026. Verified Reviews, Pros & Cons | Capterra > Is RIB CostX the right Construction Estimating solution for you? Explore 68 verified user reviews from people in industries like yours to make a confident choice. Source: https://www.capterra.com/p/75416/CostX/reviews --- RIB CostX 4.4 (68) [View alternatives](https://www.capterra.com/p/75416/CostX/alternatives/) Provider data verified by our Software Research team, and reviews moderated by our Reviews Verification team. [Learn more](https://www.capterra.com/our-story/) * * * Last updated March 13th, 2026 # Reviews of RIB CostX Ease of use 4.3 Customer Service 4.4 ## Pros and Cons in Reviews MK Marlise K Senior Quantity SurveyorConstruction, 2 - 10 employeesUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “The ability to extract quantities directly from drawings and link them effortlessly to rates saves significant time, reduces manual errors, and makes benchmarking and cost comparisons across projects far more reliable.“ May 8, 2026 PK Patrick K EstimatorConstruction, 51 - 200 employeesUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “Also, the measure distance is under "Drawings" and not in "Dimension", and it is a bit annoying to move to one tab or other for a quick check.“ May 8, 2026 LL Lulu L Quantity SurveyorConstruction, 11 - 50 employeesUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “Additionally, the ability to work directly from live drawing files and generate detailed reporting streamlined the overall estimating process and improved turnaround times on projects.“ May 8, 2026 CC Chris C Project ManagerConstruction, 51 - 200 employeesUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “Some menus and important functions feel crowded or hidden within multiple tabs, which can make navigation confusing for users.“ May 8, 2026 LL Lulu L Quantity SurveyorConstruction, 11 - 50 employeesUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “Over time, I became comfortable with workbook customization, rate libraries, and reporting functions, which helped produce more consistent and detailed cost estimates. While there was a learning curve with some advanced features, overall CostX proved to be a powerful and reliable tool for construction estimating and quantity surveying tasks.“ May 8, 2026 RN Raj N EstimatorConstruction, 11 - 50 employeesUsed the software for: 6-12 months. “During the cost review process, one of the limitations identified was the issue of CostX not linking directly to Excel for real-time or dynamic data exchange. Although CostX allows exporting to Excel and importing data in .csv formats, it does not offer a live-link capability similar to what some other platforms or add-ins provide.“ May 29, 2025 FJ Feifei J Quantity surveyorConstruction, 11 - 50 employeesUsed the software for: 1-2 years. “It's particularly praised for its integrated approach, which combines takeoff and estimating functionalities in one platform, helping to reduce errors and streamline workflows.“ June 24, 2025 BX Blaze X Associate DirectorConstruction, 11 - 50 employeesUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “The main limitation is that it does not appear to be well integrated with AI or more automated workflows.“ May 8, 2026 ## Showing most helpful reviews Showing 1-25 of 68 Reviews Sort by: Most Helpful Rating Company Size Reviewer's Role Length of Use Frequency of Use Cameron H. Project Consultant Construction Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Daily use with minimal issues and fantastic customer support" June 11, 2018 5.0 This made daily tasks very easy to compete and generally made my work life all around much easier. Pros The software is easy to use once you've taken the time to do the training, with a wide range of useful features. Being able to extract large amounts of take-off speeds up everything, while the 5D BIM integration is among the best available. I use it daily and compared to other competing software the competition doesn't compare. Cons A fairly advanced knowledge of methods of take-off is required, along with use of the provided training information and guides. For 2D take-off, DWG files are preferred, followed by vector'd PDFs and then rasta'd PDFs and images. While these will work, it really is built around DWG use. Review Source Response from RIB Software June 12, 2018 Hi Cameron, Thanks so much for your great review! We're especially pleased to hear about how you've received great support from our team. We're also happy to hear you're finding our 5D BIM features world class! As you mentioned, CostX 2D takeoff is most powerful when used with DWG drawings, as the program allows you to take advantage of the in-built drawing intelligence. However, we can of course still support PDFs, JPGs and other image files for those that don't receive these. Thanks again! TZ Tom Z. Project Manager Construction Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "Cost x Review" June 24, 2025 4.0 Overall experience has been really positive - I think there is a lot to learn from the interface of a program like cubit which will make things a bit easier. Pros Easy to spot measure and the layers of the workbook make it great to calculate complex items that can't always be measured. Cons a few things here: - No ability to measure slanting walls - Workbook needs to be able to function slightly more like excel it is clunky and doesn't allow for formulas to be correctly input with ease. - Drawings should be stored within the costx file - this way if they are moved on the companies server all drawings aren't lost. - When printing reports in levels that don't apply to all line items in a workbook, they should not show up with an empty bar - should just have a line item to clean up the printout. Alternatives considered [Cubit](https://www.capterra.com/p/126183/Cubit/) Reason for choosing RIB CostX The price point was better and the ability to have a server that other people could log on to, rather than different standalone licenses. Review Source Response from RIB Software July 4, 2025 Hi Tom, Thanks for the positive feedback on how CostX supports project budgeting. We're glad to hear that ease of use and workbook layering stood out as highlights for you. Your suggestions are very helpful — we hear you on the limitations around sloped surface measurement, 3D rendering, and workbook flexibility. These are important areas for us to continue improving. Thanks again for your thoughtful review — and for trusting CostX to support your projects. CC Chris C. Project Manager Construction Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Reliable but layout needs improvement " May 8, 2026 4.0 The platform has useful features such as document sharing, task tracking, progress reporting, and mobile access, all of which help keep projects running smoothly. Pros One of the standout features of this software is its large storage capacity, which makes it especially useful for companies handling multiple projects at once. Cons The layout could be arranged better to improve the overall user experience. Some menus and important functions feel crowded or hidden within multiple tabs, which can make navigation confusing for users. Review Source AH Andrew H. Senior Engineering Estimator Construction Used the software for: Less than 6 months ### "Slow to navigate, slow to use, not intuitive, but full featured" July 8, 2025 2.0 I know CostX is well regarded in the industry and is full featured. It however is quote slow to use (rendering and navigation). CostX contains may features and tools, but these are buried in menus and under options that make navigation and use difficult for new users without significant training. The user interface is not intuitive Pros The main reason why I wanted to try CostX was for the ability to import native design files for 3D takeoff, 2D takeoff with the ability to switch on and off layers and to try the auto takeoff features Cons There is no trial of the software, to try it you have to buy it, and I have to say I'm disappointed. The user interface is REALLY un-intuitive, there is a huge learning curve, and it's difficult to use. The system is slow, navigating around a drawing is very laggy. Auto takeoff features don't work well at all, particularly on civil engineering drawings with many intersecting lines or areas Switched from [PlanSwift](https://www.capterra.com/p/70808/PlanSwift/) Will continue to use Planswift. However Planswift is only for PDF and cannot import 3D or design models or fully utilise vector PDFs Review Source Response from RIB Software May 6, 2026 Hi Andrew, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback and experience with CostX. We appreciate you acknowledging the depth of functionality and our support for native 2D and 3D drawing files. We’re sorry to hear that performance, navigation, and overall usability did not meet your expectations. Your comments around ease of use and the learning curve are well noted. We continue to actively address these areas through ongoing improvements to performance and usability. Thank you again for your honest input - it helps us improve CostX for both new and experienced users. RL Ruslan L. Cost Management Construction Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Comprehensive and Reliable Estimating with Strong BIM Integration." March 31, 2026 5.0 Overall, RIB CostX delivered a solid, reliable estimating solution with intuitive takeoff tools and strong BIM integration. Support and training resources made adoption smooth, though mastering advanced features took some time. Collaboration and invoicing capabilities improved project workflows, while occasional performance issues with very large models and limited report customization were minor drawbacks. Overall, a valuable tool for accurate, efficient cost estimation. Pros Intuitive interface and fast takeoff tools. Accurate, reliable quantity measurement. Seamless BIM integration with 2D/3D models. Efficient reporting and customizable outputs. Responsive customer support and helpful documentation. Manageable learning curve with useful training resources. Strong project collaboration features for team workflows. Clear invoicing and cost-tracking tools. Cons Occasional performance slowdowns with very large models. Limited advanced customization in some reports. Initial setup and full feature mastery can take time. Occasional delays in feature requests or roadmap communication. Review Source Response from RIB Software May 6, 2026 Hi Ruslan, Thank you for the outstanding 5‑star review and for taking the time to share such a detailed evaluation of RIB CostX. We are delighted to hear that you find the solution reliable and intuitive, and that its BIM integration stands out. It is also great to know that our support and training resources helped make adoption smooth. Your feedback on performance with very large models and report customisation is appreciated and aligns with areas we are actively working to improve. Thank you for your insights and continued support. TR Tony R. Estimating Manager Construction Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Review Tony" May 29, 2025 5.0 Excellent program, I have used it for many years, previously I used Buildsoft and changed over to this program for the revision function and have never gone back. Pros Workbook versatility, the 10 levels gives you a perfect ability to be able to produce very detailed breakdowns. Measuring measure directly from drawings and revision function are excellent. I have not used measuring from 3d model for 10 years as we don't get them at tender time. Cons Would like workbook to be able to be linked between levels from top to bottom not bottom to top and automatic named cell function. The workbook has lots of potential to produce very detailed rate breakdowns, I currently work in the Civil Earthworks field and had previously used the program for 20 years in building and construction, so I understand it Switched from [Cubit](https://www.capterra.com/p/126183/Cubit/) For the revision function and measuring features from drawing and the workbook Review Source Response from RIB Software July 4, 2025 Thank you for your 5-star review and for being a long-time supporter of RIB CostX! We're so pleased to hear the revision function and workbook structure continue to deliver value in your estimating work — especially across both building and civil construction. We really appreciate your thoughtful suggestions around top-down workbook linking and automatic named cells. Feedback like this from experienced users helps us continue to refine and evolve the platform. RN Raj N. Estimator Construction Used the software for: 6-12 months ### "Estimate integration" May 29, 2025 4.0 Although CostX requires some time to become familiar with, once fully operational, it significantly enhances productivity and saves time across the estimating process. Pros The integration of markup and pricing significantly enhances the efficiency and accuracy of the estimation process. By combining these two elements into a single workflow, estimators can streamline operations, reduce the risk of errors, and improve transparency throughout the project lifecycle. Cons During the cost review process, one of the limitations identified was the issue of CostX not linking directly to Excel for real-time or dynamic data exchange. Although CostX allows exporting to Excel and importing data in .csv formats, it does not offer a live-link capability similar to what some other platforms or add-ins provide. This affects workflows that rely heavily on Excel for downstream processing, reporting, or custom financial modeling. Switched from [Bluebeam Revu](https://www.capterra.com/p/121586/Bluebeam-PDF-Revu/) To integrate both pricing and markup of the project Review Source Response from RIB Software May 8, 2026 Hi Raj, Thank you for taking the time to share your review of RIB CostX. We are pleased to hear that integrating pricing and markup into a single workflow has improved efficiency, accuracy, and transparency in your estimating process. We appreciate your feedback regarding Excel integration and have noted it accordingly. It’s great to hear that despite the initial learning curve, once familiar with the platform, CostX has delivered meaningful productivity gains and time savings. We continue to focus on helping users get the most from CostX as quickly as possible. Thank you for using CostX! FJ Feifei J. Quantity surveyor Construction Used the software for: 1-2 years ### " Time-saver for QS" June 24, 2025 5.0 CostX allows users to perform accurate quantity takeoffs from various drawing formats, including scanned images, PDFs, CAD files, and BIM models. It is a time-saver for QS. Pros Users often highlight its ability to significantly improve accuracy, efficiency, and collaboration in the pre-construction phase. It's particularly praised for its integrated approach, which combines takeoff and estimating functionalities in one platform, helping to reduce errors and streamline workflows. Cons Some users have found setting up projects or navigating certain aspects of the software to be initially unintuitive without proper naming conventions or professional expertise. Switched from [PlanSwift](https://www.capterra.com/p/70808/PlanSwift/) It is significant improvements in the speed and accuracy of their estimating processes compared to traditional manual methods. This leads to more precise bids and better project control. Review Source Response from RIB Software July 4, 2025 Hi Feifei, Thank you for the 5-star review! It’s fantastic to hear that CostX has made a real difference in streamlining your team’s workflow — especially by bringing quantity takeoff and pricing together in one place. We’re glad the software is helping reduce manual effort and bring more consistency to your estimating process. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. IA Imad A. cost manager Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 6-12 months ### "Hope to see AI takeoff in CostX , for Example Flooring Takeoff in Togal.AI" March 31, 2026 5.0 expellant easy to learn Drawing management project management folders hierarchy linking to Excel very useful Pros 2D PDF quantities take off 3D Revit if we can refresh quantities when updating revit model Drawing management Cons customer support nice people Review Source Response from RIB Software May 6, 2026 Hi Imad, Thank you for taking the time to review CostX. We are pleased to hear that our 2D and 3D takeoff capabilities are the right fit for your needs. We also appreciate your mention of our Customer Support team, who are always available to help with even the most challenging questions. Your comments on using AI technologies in CostX are well taken and will be considered as we continue to evolve and enhance the software. Thank you again for being a valued customer. PI Peter I. Estimator Construction Used the software for: 2+ years ### "CostX Review" May 8, 2026 4.0 Fantastic, really great program to use for estimating as it allows multiple users to work on a project at the same time. Best on the market. Pros Extremely user friendly and easy to pick up. The constant updates really take on board feedback from users. Cons The login process changed in a recent update and now it takes longer to login. Previously this was quicker. Review Source Response from RIB Software May 18, 2026 Hi Peter, Thanks for the great feedback. We’re glad to hear you find CostX easy to use and that the updates are adding value. It’s also fantastic to know it’s supporting collaboration across your team. We appreciate your feedback on the increased login times and will take that on board as we continue to improve the experience. Thanks for being a CostX user. MF Morgan F. Estimator Construction Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Solid beast, my side kick for last 8 years" June 24, 2025 5.0 My overall experience with RIB CostX has been solid. It’s a powerful and reliable estimating software, and so far, there’s no alternative in the market that offers a better combination of accuracy, speed, and integration Pros I liked how RIB CostX offers integrated and reliable estimating tools that streamline quantity takeoffs and cost planning within one platform. It saves time and improves accuracy, making the estimating process much more efficient. Cons What I liked least about RIB CostX is that it heavily relies on keyboard shortcuts, which can be hard to memorise and slows down productivity for new or occasional users. Review Source Response from RIB Software July 4, 2025 Hi Morgan, Thanks so much for the review! Calling CostX your “sidekick” for the last 8 years is the kind of feedback we love to hear — it’s an honour to support your estimating journey. We’re glad you find the platform reliable and intuitive. Your suggestion about needing more workflow customisation and detailed guidance is well taken — we’ll be looking at ways to strengthen this experience for you and other long-time users. Thanks again for your trust and loyalty — we’re grateful you’re part of the CostX community EF Even F. Director Construction Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Experience with cost x " May 29, 2025 4.0 Good experience except the IT support now wants us to lodge a ticket for support, sometime we are time poor and phone technical support is much easier. Pros It’s very visual and easy to explain to client what we have measured. Overall client has praised the software. Cons When there are several sections within an estimate, we have to go up and down a level and this takes time Review Source Response from RIB Software July 4, 2025 Hi Even, Thank you for your review and for highlighting how helpful CostX has been when it comes to visually presenting estimates to clients. Making the complex simple is one of our key goals, and it’s great to know that’s coming through in your experience. We appreciate your support and look forward to continuing to help you deliver clear, confident estimates. BR Bharat R. IT Support Construction Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Best Service" May 30, 2025 5.0 We never had a bad experience with the software, it works fine for all CostX users and it's friendly. Pros Customer service, like when we have an issue opening the CostX file due to the low version installed the customer service team helps to get it resolved asap. Cons Price :) Sometimes it feels very expensive when we are going for renewal, but overall, no complaints about the software. Review Source Response from RIB Software July 4, 2025 Hi Bharat, Thank you for the 5-star review! We're so pleased to hear you've had such consistently positive experiences with both the software and our support team. Knowing that our customer service stands out to you means a lot — we work hard to be there when our users need us. Thanks again for taking the time to share your experience. FA Feroz A. Project Engineer Civil Engineering Used the software for: Less than 6 months ### "RIB CostX Best Features" June 24, 2025 4.0 RIB Costx is an efficient and user friendly software which provides various features for the user to carry on task day to day. Pros User friendly Transparency One stop shop for all estimating purposes It provides the option to do a detailed comparison of subcontractors which is very helpful for decision making and final estimation Cons BIM support can be fine tuned to to provide more easy and efficient use. Sometimes it lags and takes time to perform. Review Source Response from RIB Software July 4, 2025 Hi Feroz, Thank you for your review and for sharing your early impressions of RIB CostX. We’re glad to hear it’s already proving helpful in your role by offering transparency and supporting daily estimating tasks. Your feedback on BIM support is appreciated. We’re continuing to invest in our 3D workflows, and your input helps guide where we focus next — especially in improving visual interaction and usability. Thanks again for being part of the CostX community — we look forward to supporting your continued success. SHS Syed Himat S. Quantity Surveyor Construction Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Advanced QS Tool" July 31, 2024 5.0 Have a really great experience and looking forward to new updates. Pros User friendly and give lots option to review and easy to measure any image/pdf/cad etc... Cons Writing dimensions and unable to add duplicate Review Source Response from RIB Software August 8, 2024 Hi Syed, thank you for choosing RIB CostX! We’re thrilled to hear you’re having a great experience with us so far. Our software does indeed support all common design files including 2D images, PDFs, CAD, Revit and 3D/BIM to ensure you have all the flexibility you need. Furthermore, we are committed to continuous innovation through regular software updates to ensure you’re equipped with industry-leading tools needed for efficient and accurate takeoff and estimation. Thanks again for your support! JR Jack R. Quantity Surveyor Civil Engineering Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "CostX has made measuring and estimating from CAD manageable. Would recommend." August 4, 2017 4.0 Pros The biggest selling point for the software for us is the link between dimensions in the workbook and drawing files. This allows clients to quickly understand the source of the data in the workbook, and builds a level of transparency and trust. The ability to store a rate database also has advantages in terms of the ability to reference past rates and benchmark cost. The rate library allows the quick adjustment of a rate across a major project, with only one edit required to adjust the entire estimate to accommodate this change. After care in terms of technical support for the product has been superb, which is vital when adopting such software as your mainstay for measuring or estimating. The Product Support Team have gone above and beyond on numerous occasions to ensure that any technical issue we have encountered has been resolved in a timely fashion, to ensure minimal inconvenience to our projects. Cons I would consider the 3D Measuring Tools fairly primitive currently. The model maps tool would be perfectly adequate if the quality of models received in the industry currently was always sufficient for automatic quantity extraction, but unfortunately that often is not the case at the moment. Measuring manually on 3D models currently can feel clunky, and measuring wall faces on the insides of buildings can feel like a chore, as navigating the model can be difficult with the tools available. The ability to lock the model in the centre of the screen in v6.6 was a very necessary step. Review Source Response from RIB Software August 6, 2017 Hi Jack, Thanks so much for your review! We're so pleased to hear you love the live-links, and great to see a 5 star rating for customer support. With regards to the BIM features, we note the industry does have a little way to go before BIM can be used as it is intended. It may be helpful if you provide your architects with a copy of our Drawing File Optimisation document so they have a better idea of what they need to include in the model they are providing to Quantity Surveyors. Apart from that, we will take your comments on board! One of our Product Specialists will contact you about the navigation issue you mentioned too. Thanks again! EP Erick P. Lead Estimator Mining & Metals Used the software for: 2+ years ### "iTWO CostX Review" June 14, 2022 3.0 Happy in general with what the Software offers. Pros One of the best Taking off Software Packages available on the market. Cons Not many standard reports available. Need to spend a lot of time editing and writing a report if you do not already have a standard template. Review Source Response from RIB Software June 13, 2024 Hi Erick, Thanks so much for your review! We're delighted to hear that you are enjoying using RIB CostX, especially our advanced takeoff features. In regards to your comment on reports, we offer both a standard and custom report writer option for added flexibility. The standard report writer is a lot faster to create new templates with. Hope this helps! MR Michael R. senior quantity surveyor / team leader Construction Used the software for: 2+ years ### "I'm using the software daily, I'm happy with the level of service it provide to me and the company." January 10, 2018 5.0 Pros Ability to have open drawings in more screens. Ability to quickly update the building templates with ease. Ability to create reports. Ability to have a support team on hands. Cons Here we use costx to standardize the estimates we do for our construction projects. We are utilizing a default template on all our estimates and sometimes we require to update specific cells in multiple workbooks. It would be nice if we were able to do it, once, for a series of buildings, rather then repeating the same task several times. Review Source Response from RIB Software January 12, 2018 Hi Michael, Thanks so much for your review! It's great to hear you're happy with the features and the support you're receiving. Thanks also for your comment regarding your default template. Mass updates are possible to do with some items, such as live-linked rates. One of our Product Specialists will give you a call to further discuss specifics. Thanks again! DC Drew C. Estimator Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "Very good software, a good all rounder" November 28, 2017 5.0 Pros Takeoff software is second to none, simple excel style pricing structure makes it easy to use. Rate libraries are extensive and detailed once populated correctly. Cons Reports are a tad complicated if you want your own custom report. With a large number of buildings its best to keep a searchable building code somewhere else as it can get confusing scrolling through the list. I have been informed this will be implemented in the future though. Review Source Response from RIB Software December 4, 2017 Hi Drew, Thanks so much for your review! We always appreciate receiving feedback from our customers. It is great to hear that you're enjoying the takeoff and our Excel-style workbook. Thanks also for your comments on reports and building codes, we have passed it onto our Product Development team. BB Bob B. IT Manager Construction Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Support Experience is always first class, friendly and helpful" October 27, 2017 5.0 It started small with a few internal users using it, the benefits of speed and exporting data has led to a universal uptake in its use and staff in every office have access. Pros My users find that the software is easy to use, deploy and update. Feedback is positive that it does what it says on the box! Cons Resource hungry, we use an i5 processor platform with Solid State Drive and some functions seem slower than others, so would benefit being on faster systems. Review Source Response from RIB Software November 1, 2017 Thanks for your great review Bob! We're very happy that you've found CostX easy to use, and will definitely be passing this feedback onto our team. Thanks again! FM Fabio M. Assistant Cost Consultant Construction Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "CostX" February 11, 2022 4.0 Problems include operating over a centralised server, once down affects everyone Pros Usually extremely fast for quick take-off exercises Cons When exporting cost plans it was very difficult finding the correct template to print Review Source Response from RIB Software February 16, 2022 Hi Fabio, Thanks so much for your review. We are so glad to hear you're finding iTWO costX is fast and easy to use! You mentioned that the system can be slow when operated over a centralised server but it is worth noting that this can be dependent on the server specifications; we also offer a cloud version or standalone version to mitigate any server speed issues which may be worthwhile for you to review. Hope this helps and thanks again for the great review! RC Rakesh C. Senior Quantity Surveyor Construction Used the software for: Less than 6 months ### "I am new with CostX, but now I am get the advantages of it." March 16, 2018 5.0 This tool saves lots of time in measuring compared with old school method of using scale ruler. Pros I am using this daily - measuring quantities. This way quicker and faster then the old school method of using scale rule. this is a great tool for the quantity surveyors Review Source Response from RIB Software March 18, 2018 Hi Rakesh, Thanks so much for your great review! We're so pleased to hear you're finding CostX to be an upgrade from your scale ruler. As you're new with CostX, you may be interested in reviewing our CostX Coffee Break webinars for some tips & tricks that will help even more with your CostX use! (http://www.exactal.com/en/webinars) Thanks again and happy measuring! aA arfan A. quantity surveyor Used the software for: ### "good software" October 20, 2014 5.0 this software made the measurement work more be easy Review Source LL Lulu L. Quantity Surveyor Construction Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Powerful and Efficient Estimating Software for Quantity Surveying" May 8, 2026 4.0 Overall, my experience with RIB CostX has been very positive. I used it extensively for quantity takeoffs, cost estimating, BOQ preparation, and tender analysis across different stages of projects. The software significantly improved efficiency by integrating measurement, estimating, and reporting within a single platform, which reduced manual errors and streamlined workflows. I found the 2D/3D takeoff tools particularly effective for improving accuracy and handling drawing revisions quickly. Over time, I became comfortable with workbook customization, rate libraries, and reporting functions, which helped produce more consistent and detailed cost estimates. While there was a learning curve with some advanced features, overall CostX proved to be a powerful and reliable tool for construction estimating and quantity surveying tasks. Pros What I liked most about RIB CostX was its integrated 2D/3D BIM takeoff capability and the efficiency it brought to cost planning and estimating workflows. The software’s dynamic linking between measured quantities, workbooks, and drawing revisions significantly reduced manual recalculations and improved estimate accuracy. I also found the layer-based measurement tools, auto-revisioning features, and centralized rate libraries particularly valuable for maintaining consistency across BOQs and tender estimates. Additionally, the ability to work directly from live drawing files and generate detailed reporting streamlined the overall estimating process and improved turnaround times on projects. Cons One aspect I liked least about RIB CostX was that performance could slow down when working with very large or highly detailed drawing sets and BIM models. I also found that some advanced functions and workbook customizations had a fairly steep learning curve, particularly when setting up complex estimate structures or templates. In collaborative environments, managing file versions and ensuring consistency across shared databases could sometimes be challenging without well-defined workflows. Review Source Response from RIB Software May 15, 2026 Hi Lulu, Thank you for such a detailed and thoughtful review - we truly appreciate the time you took to share such comprehensive insights. It’s great to hear how extensively you’ve used CostX across takeoff, estimating, and BOQ workflows, and that features like 2D/3D integration, dynamic linking, and reporting have delivered real value. Your detailed feedback on performance and advanced workflows is equally appreciated and helps guide our ongoing improvements. Thank you again for your continued use of CostX and for sharing such valuable perspective! The Team at CostX. ML Mark L. Estimator Warehousing Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Reliable and Powerful Estimating Software for Commercial Projects" May 8, 2026 5.0 Overall, my experience with CostX has been positive. It’s a powerful estimating tool that works very well once you’re familiar with the system. It’s especially useful for detailed quantity takeoffs and managing complex construction estimates. While there are areas that could be improved from a usability and performance perspective, it’s still one of the more capable estimating platforms available for commercial construction work. Pros CostX is very efficient for takeoffs and estimating, especially on larger commercial projects. The live-linking between drawings and quantities saves a lot of time, and the revision tracking makes it easy to compare drawing updates without starting from scratch. The Excel integration is also one of the stronger features for building custom estimate templates and workflows. Cons The software can feel quite heavy and occasionally slow on large jobs with multiple revisions loaded. Some functions are not very intuitive for new users, and there’s definitely a learning curve before you can use it efficiently. Licensing and setup can also be a bit restrictive compared to newer cloud-based estimating platforms. Review Source Response from RIB Software May 18, 2026 Hi Mark, Thank you for sharing such a well‑rounded and detailed review. It’s great to hear that live-linking, revision tracking, and Excel integration are delivering value for you. We also appreciate your feedback on performance, usability, and licensing. These are important areas for us, and we continue to focus on improving the overall user experience and system performance. Thanks again for using CostX. Similar Products Featured ## Related categories [Construction Estimating](https://www.capterra.com/construction-estimating-software/)[Takeoff](https://www.capterra.com/takeoff-software/)[BIM](https://www.capterra.com/bim-software/) ## Send me user reviews about this product ### Fill out the form and we'll send a list of the top-rated software based on real user reviews directly to your inbox.