# Page 2 | RIB CostX Reviews 2026. Verified Reviews, Pros & Cons | Capterra

> Page 2 - 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

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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/)

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Last updated March 13th, 2026

# Page 2 - Reviews of RIB CostX

## Showing most helpful reviews

Showing 26-50 of 68 Reviews

Sort by:

Most Helpful

Rating

Company Size

Reviewer's Role

Length of Use

Frequency of Use

ZG

Zac G.  
Director  
Construction  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Terrible Customer Service | Starting to fall behind alternatives"

May 6, 2026

2.0

The customer service and sales experience bugged me for years and we finally moved our whole company to an alternative which was the best decision we ever made.

Pros

Relatively easy to use program. Used it for close to 14 years. Familiar functionality and workbook experience.

Cons

Easily the worst customer service and sales experience I have come across. Enough to move our whole company away from the platform. Starting to fall behind AI alternatives and AI integrations. The network solution is clunky, expensive and time consuming to use. The maintenance cost is beyond ridiculous.

Alternatives considered

[PlanSwift](https://www.capterra.com/p/70808/PlanSwift/)[Bluebeam Revu](https://www.capterra.com/p/121586/Bluebeam-PDF-Revu/)[Togal.AI](https://www.capterra.com/p/10001876/Togal-AI/)

Reason for choosing RIB CostX

We didn’t we chose a different solution to costx.

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

May 15, 2026

Hi Zac, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We strive to provide strong support at every stage, and we’re sorry that your experience didn’t reflect the level of service we aim to deliver. At the same time, we truly appreciate your long history with CostX and your recognition of its functionalities and ease of use - especially after 14 years. We value your feedback and can assure you that CostX is continuously evolving, with new functionalities being introduced alongside ongoing improvements in reliability and performance. Should you consider CostX again in the future, our team would be happy to assist you and ensure you have the support you need. Thank you.

BX

Blaze X.  
Associate Director  
Construction  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Reliable QS Measurement Tool with Room for AI Improvement"

May 8, 2026

5.0

Overall, my experience with RIB CostX has been positive. It is a reliable and practical tool for quantity take-off, measurement, and estimate preparation. While there is room for improvement, particularly around automation and AI integration, it remains useful for day-to-day QS work.

Pros

The user interface is clear and generally easy to navigate. I like the way drawings, measurement, and workbook functions are combined in one platform, which makes quantity take-off and review more efficient.

Cons

The main limitation is that it does not appear to be well integrated with AI or more automated workflows. Some processes still feel quite manual, and better AI support could improve productivity and reduce repetitive tasks.

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

May 18, 2026

Hi Blaze, It’s great to hear that your experience with RIB CostX has been positive and that you find it a reliable and practical tool for your day‑to‑day work. We’re also pleased to know you value CostX as an all‑in‑one platform that helps streamline your workflows. We appreciate your feedback around automation and AI. This is an area we’re actively exploring as we continue to evolve the platform and further improve productivity. Thanks again for your feedback and for using CostX.

PK

Patrick K.  
Estimator  
Construction  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Costx -2026 review"

May 8, 2026

5.0

It is a good software and I personally prefer this over the other estimating software, which i thought was a bit oudated in terms of UI and easy of use.

Pros

Easy to learn and use. User interface is quite intuitive. It is not too bad when other users are helping on the same projects. The BOQ workbook works very similar to the Microsoft Excel.

Cons

When multiple users are on the same projects, and the workbook would not let you edit the summary/description. 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.

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

May 18, 2026

Hi Patrick, Thank you for your feedback. It’s great to hear you find CostX easy to learn and with an intuitive interface. We acknowledge your comments around collaboration limitations and navigation between tools, and appreciate you highlighting these areas. Thanks again for sharing your experience and for choosing CostX.

CG

Chris G.  
Estimator  
Construction  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "CostX is the BestX"

May 8, 2026

5.0

Sensational. I converted my new company over after using buildsoft for two years and the difference is night and day

Pros

Complete integration of the entire estimating process. Endless features that I've barely even begun to touch on

Cons

To be able to access their cloud based storage solutions you need to purchase a minimum of 4 licenses which makes it difficult for smaller companies. These companies are generally the ones without a dedicated server which negates the need for cloud based storage. It's a upside down in my opinion

Switched from

[Cubit](https://www.capterra.com/p/126183/Cubit/)

Integration of measuring and workbook functions

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

May 18, 2026

Hi Chris, Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. It’s great to hear that CostX is delivering value to your business, and we appreciate your feedback on the depth of features the platform offers. We also value your honest feedback on cloud access and licensing for smaller teams. Your input is valuable and helps us continue to improve our offering. Thanks again for choosing CostX and for sharing your experience.

MK

Marlise K.  
Senior Quantity Surveyor  
Construction  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Accurate, Efficient Measurement and Reliable Cost Planning"

May 8, 2026

5.0

Excellent. I use this software on a daily basis and actively encourage clients to adopt it as well. It significantly improves efficiency, enhances accuracy, and enables the production of more professional documentation for clients.

Pros

Its accuracy and efficiency in measurement and cost planning. 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.

Cons

When writing formulas, you have to look up the cell and enter it manually. Can not group Workbooks in folders

Review Source

MD

Matt D.  
Quantity Surveyor  
Construction  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Daily user review"

May 8, 2026

5.0

Positive - I use Cost X every day as it is still the most accurate tool for manual measuring, would 100% recommend it if you are looking for a software tool with a higher level of accuracy than many of the other quantifying softwares available

Pros

Very easy to use, helps me to win jobs with quick quoting. We basically use cost x when accurate measurements are required for job ordering

Cons

No AI incorporation yet, would love it to just detect and auto calc everything. There are softwares that can do this out there, but we do still use Cost X for accuracy over these softwares. Combine the two and Cost X would win hands down.

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

May 15, 2026

Hi Matt, Thank you for your great feedback! We are pleased to hear CostX is helping you win work with fast quoting while delivering the accuracy you rely on every day. We appreciate your recognition of CostX’s accuracy and reliability. We also value your thoughts on AI, and this is an area we’re actively exploring as we continue to evolve the platform. Thank you for being a CostX user!

SC

Sam C.  
Estimating Manager  
Construction  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "CostX Review"

May 10, 2026

5.0

I am using CostX for the last 14 years. I have also used other softwares like Buildsoft/Cubit, Planswift, etc. CostX is the best.

Pros

CostX has most of the functions, and is easy to use compared to other softwares. It works in remote, or can be downloaded and work independently.

Cons

There is not option to choose a colour to the writings in the description column of CostX. It will be always in black.

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

May 18, 2026

Hi Sam, Thank you for your feedback and for being a long-time CostX user. We really appreciate your continued trust over the past 14 years. It’s great to hear you find CostX easy to use and a strong all-round solution compared to other tools. We acknowledge your feedback on text colour options in descriptions. Thanks again for your support and for choosing CostX.

KO

Karl O.  
Quantity Surveyor  
Construction  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "My "Go To" App"

June 4, 2025

5.0

I have used CostX now for more than 10 years and it runs on my PC from the start of my day to when I finish. I do try to use as many of the functions as I can but I am constantly impressed whenever I try something new - I still have a lot to learn but the software is perfect for my work and I could not be without it now.

Pros

CostX provides a great way to measure and price a project seamlessly. The software is very stable and technical support staff are always available ready to solve any issues or queries.

Cons

To undertake project revisions can sometimes be frustrating especially if it is not completely clear on the screen where any un-amended dimensions still need to be reviewed, This is often where a very small section of a line has not been reviewed and can be tricky to locate on a drawing.

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

July 4, 2025

Hi Karl, Thank you for the fantastic 5-star review and for being a long-time CostX user for over a decade — that’s a tremendous vote of confidence and we truly appreciate it! We’re glad to hear the measurement, pricing, and flexible workbook/database setup continue to support your wide range of projects. Your point on the complexity of handling revisions across linked workbooks is well taken — it’s something we’re continually working to make more intuitive, especially for users working across multiple estimates. Thanks again for your ongoing trust in RIB CostX — we’re proud to be your go-to app.

JT

Julie T.  
Estimator  
Construction  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "RIB CostX is an invaluable tool"

May 29, 2025

4.0

RIB CostX has significantly enhanced the accuracy and efficiency of our estimating processes. From early-stage feasibility studies to detailed post-tender cost plans, it handles every stage with confidence.

Pros

1\. The live-link between drawings and cost plans is seamless. 2. Tailoring rate libraries and estimate structures to suit specific project types or client preferences is straightforward. 3. Reports generated through CostX are professional, detailed, and configurable. 4. The RIB support team is responsive and knowledgeable.

Cons

1\. Cloud based limitations, requires a VPN network to access the software for multi-user configurations. 2. Exporting to excel or excel work books are not configurable. 3. Limited Integration with Some Project Management Tools, it would be great if we can sync the database with a dashboard tool like Power BI. The out of the box platforms provided by RIB like benchmark require the user to follow a locked in format. 4. Ideas portal is in its infancy, there is not much traction and visibility to see other users' ideas for us to vote on.

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

July 7, 2025

Hi Julie, Thank you for taking the time to leave a review — we’re so pleased to hear that CostX has helped improve the accuracy and efficiency of your estimating workflows. It’s great to know features like the live-link between drawings and cost plans, flexible rate libraries, and professional reporting are making a real difference for your team. Regarding your comment about Power BI integration — while CostX doesn’t offer native syncing with Power BI, it can be integrated using our OData REST API. The recommended method is to extract data into a corporate data lake or warehouse, then connect Power BI from there for optimal performance and flexibility. We truly appreciate your feedback and will continue to enhance integration options going forward. If you'd like help getting started with REST API, our support team is here to assist. Thanks again for your support!

GC

Geoff C.  
Quantity Surveyor  
Construction  
Used the software for: 1-2 years

### "CostX to Cubit conversion required"

June 2, 2025

4.0

In general our overall experience with this software is excellent. We are still learning our way around but have found it is generally easy to use, fast and efficient

Pros

Fast and efficient onscreen measurement for most trades. In addition, our clients have the ability to review in detail exactly what we have measured giving them an extra measure of confidence in the Builders BoQ's we produce for tender purposes

Cons

Converts to Buildsoft Global but does not convert to Cubit. We measure tenders for groups of builders, and now Global is being discontinued we are left in the situation where some builders in the group want CostX and some want Cubit (but few want Global), but the process of transferring first to Global then to Cubit is lengthy as the Global conversion has no headings, secondary quantities or Q coding transferred over (and the Q coding system is only compatible with two digit codes). Direct conversion from CostX to Cubit is essential

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

July 4, 2025

Hi Geoff, Thank you for your review and for highlighting what’s working well for your team. It’s great to know the measurement tools and layered estimating structure are helping streamline your workflows. We’ve noted your comments on the conversion limitations with Cubit — we understand how critical flexibility in data migration can be, and we’ll keep this front of mind as we explore ways to better support transitions between platforms. Thanks again for your valuable feedback.

NK

Nikos K.  
Senior Associate  
Real Estate  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Efficient, Accurate, and Collaborative"

June 4, 2025

5.0

My experience with RIB CostX has generally been very positive. The takeoff tools, both 2D and 3D, are intuitive and save a lot of time compared to manual calculations. The cloud-based collaboration feature is also a standout, allowing team members to stay aligned and work together in real time, no matter their location

Pros

I particularly appreciate the comprehensive and user-friendly interface of RIB CostX. The software’s ability to seamlessly combine both 2D and 3D takeoff capabilities makes it incredibly versatile.

Cons

While RIB CostX offers a powerful set of features, I find that the learning curve can be steep for new users, especially those not familiar with BIM or advanced cost estimation software.

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

May 6, 2026

Hi Nikos, Thank you for the excellent review and for sharing your experience with RIB CostX. We are pleased to hear that our 2D and 3D takeoff tools are saving you time and that cloud‑based collaboration is helping your teams stay aligned. It is great to know that CostX’s interface stands out as comprehensive and user‑friendly. We appreciate your feedback on the learning curve for new users and continue to improve our onboarding, training, and guidance to help users get value from CostX more quickly. Thank you again for your support and for being a valued CostX user.

JZ

Jeremy Z.  
Cost Planner  
Construction  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Best 2D Measurment & Pricing software"

May 29, 2025

4.0

CostX is one of the best measurements and pricing software. Very easy to use and user friendly while improve work productivity. Some of the function is really powerful in the workbook function

Pros

1\. 2D measurement is easy to use and very efficient if polyline is used 2. Workbook pricing functional works as excel (incl. formula-based function) is very powerful

Cons

1\. A bit slow if loading a 3D BIM model with revit or ifc format 2. Can't printing multiple drawings with measurement in one go (only allow to print one by one)

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

July 4, 2025

Hi Jeremy, Thank you for your review and for highlighting what you value most in RIB CostX. We're thrilled to hear that the 2D measurement, dimension groups, and live-link functionality have been such strong assets in your estimating process. Your feedback on performance with complex 3D BIM models and the user interface is much appreciated. We’re continually working to improve both performance and usability, and comments like yours help guide those efforts. Thanks again for your support — we’re glad to have you as part of the CostX community!

RS

Richard S.  
General Manager, Estimating  
Construction  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "The most flexible measuring tool on the market"

June 25, 2025

5.0

I have been using CostX for well over a decade. As a measure tool for structures / building projects it is second to none in the local market. I run a team of over 200 estimators and cost planners across a very wide range of disciplines, and it is one of our key tools for take offs

Pros

The ability to read pretty much any file type used in the industry and integrate them together. You can have a design made up of scanned hand sketches for one dissipline and a fully federated model from another and seamlessly combine them together.

Cons

The subcontractor vetting module is ok for fully documented projects but doesn't have the ability to deal with substantial changes in design.

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

July 4, 2025

Thanks for the fantastic 5-star review and for being a long-term supporter of RIB CostX! It’s wonderful to hear the software has become an essential part of your daily routine. We're especially pleased to know that the flexibility and speed of CostX continue to add real value to your estimating work — that’s exactly what we aim to deliver. We also appreciate your feedback on the subcontractor vetting module, something we will keep in mind as we continue to improve. Thanks again for your continued trust and support.

RB

Rob B.  
Cost Manager  
Construction  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "The cream always rises to the top!"

June 24, 2025

5.0

Really good! Have been using it for over 20 years and it's always been a market leader in my opinion.

Pros

The functionality, flexibility and easy of use. I've always found it useful when presenting cost plans / tenders to stakeholders, in particular linked dimensions to drawings..

Cons

Creating formulas within workbooks could be a bit more automated and measuring curves is quite clunky.

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

July 4, 2025

Hi Rob, Thanks so much for your 5-star review and for being with us for over two decades — that’s an incredible journey! It’s great to hear that the platform’s functionality and flexibility continue to meet your needs. We also appreciate your feedback on formula creation within workbooks. It’s a fair point, and something we’ll keep in mind as we work to improve the user experience. Thanks again for your insights and loyalty. We truly value your support.

BS

Brian S.  
Director  
Construction  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Great product. Ok service."

May 29, 2025

4.0

The software is really great, but the customer service could be drastically improved to match the quality of the product.

Pros

The take-off is really easy, once you learn the tricks. The workbooks have good category break down which is really helpful and really customisable.

Cons

It's quite complicated to know everything the software can do, but you have to pay for the training videos. If you pay your yearly subscription, this should include the videos so you can learn all the features. It doesn't cost RIB much, but provides such a huge customer service and will retain subscriptions.. It just makes sense. The workbooks could also do with another layer of calcs.

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

July 4, 2025

Hi Brian, Thanks for your thoughtful review! We’re pleased to hear you’ve found the takeoff tools fast and effective— that’s exactly what we aim for. We know there’s a lot of depth in CostX, and it can take time to discover everything the software can do. If you haven’t already, we recommend checking out our free CostX Coffee Break Webinar series on YouTube — these are quick, practical sessions that explore specific features and tips to help you get even more out of the platform. We drop a new episode covering a new topic every month! Thanks again for your feedback and continued support.

SK

Steff K.  
ESTIMATOR  
Construction  
Used the software for: Less than 6 months

### "Great tool for estimating! "

May 29, 2025

4.0

overall, really well. I am in a new role using CostX and it's been a handy tool, helping me understand.

Pros

It's so easy to use and a really helpful tool when estimating! I specifically like the snap lock 'line' tool when auto selecting lines.

Cons

The curser not being exact and the complexity to select certain things when needing to delete lines/items.

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

July 4, 2025

Hi Steff, Thanks for your review! We're so pleased to hear CostX has been a helpful tool as you step into your new role and that you're finding features like the snap-lock line tool useful for estimating. If you're looking to explore more tips and workflows, we’d recommend checking out our free CostX Coffee Break webinar series on YouTube. They're short, practical sessions designed to help users like you get the most out of the platform. Thanks again for sharing your experience!

MC

Mike C.  
Systems Administrator  
Construction  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Drank the koolaid, would drink again"

August 8, 2024

5.0

100% positive, probably one of the best pieces of software that I work with bar none. Over the years there have been evolutions in the supporting software - the database back end changes for example - but there is a steady path of improvement and it's exciting with each release to see what has been renewal introduced.

Pros

It's flexible for the real world. You can work with a photo of a set of plans, a home drawn image exported, full PDF plan sets from arch/structure designers, DWFX/BIM imports from architects. On the measurement side, it's totally flexible in that regard. On the costing side, CostX has a strong Excel-inspired methodology which is quickly understood by anyone with a spreadsheet background. Excellent software, can't say enough good about it.

Cons

I think some of the product offerings between full blown CostX down to the pared down Excel version get a bit confusing from the outside looking in. There is probably room to promote contractors who help with implementation or promote those services if RIB directly can provide that. As with a blank Excel spreadsheet (or a database in general), the ability to customize and develop can be overwhelming to most.

Alternatives considered

[MiTek](https://www.capterra.com/p/119717/Workflow-Management-Suite/)

Reason for choosing RIB CostX

We did a scored matrix review of 50+ pieces of software on a 10 point scale. Most software was in the 2-3 point range. CostX had points in the hundreds. It was a full order of magnitude (e.g. 10x the points) of any competitor.

Switched from

[Microsoft Excel](https://www.capterra.com/p/176574/Excel/)

Home brewed Excel system that was hard to understand and maintain. After developing out CostX to our business standards, we've been able to onboard employees to being fully functional inside of 4-6 weeks, whereas within Excel we had employees using the system for years who still struggled.

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

August 22, 2024

Hi Mike, Thank you so much for your positive review! We understand how important it is for a takeoff and estimation software to support a wide range of design formats and take pride in CostX’s flexibility to meet those needs. Our Excel-like costing features are designed to be intuitive, a quality which many of our customers also appreciate. Regarding our product range, we offer solutions tailored to various business sizes and needs. If you haven't already, I recommend exploring our product table on our website. This resource provides a side-by-side comparison of the key features within each version, helping you find the best fit as your business evolves. Our expert team is also here to assist with any questions to simplify your decision-making process. Thank you again for your continued support!

BW

Ben W.  
National Estimating Manager  
Construction  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Highly Efficient and User-Friendly Estimating Software"

August 5, 2024

5.0

My overall experience with RIB CostX has been very positive. It has proven to be an invaluable tool for our estimating processes, providing a user-friendly and efficient platform that integrates seamlessly with our design tools. The software's capabilities have enhanced our workflow and allowed us to deliver more accurate and timely estimates. Despite a few minor issues with support, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks, making CostX a top choice for estimating software.

Pros

What I liked most about RIB CostX is its speed and accuracy in estimating and quantity surveying. The software's integration with Revit and BIM data has greatly streamlined our processes at Ausco Modular, enhancing both efficiency and precision in our estimates and bills of materials. Features such as Dimension Groups with Audit Links offer flexible measurement and ensure accuracy, while Model Maps and Workbooks improve data extraction and breakdowns. The intuitive design, similar to Excel, makes it easy for teams to use and collaborate effectively.

Cons

One area for improvement is the need for more robust customer support and troubleshooting resources. Compared to my experience with Exactal, where I had a personal connection with the development and support teams, the current RIB tech support feels less personal. I feel like more of a number in the queue now, and quicker, more personalised support would enhance the overall experience.

Alternatives considered

[Cubit](https://www.capterra.com/p/126183/Cubit/)

Reason for choosing RIB CostX

We chose RIB CostX because it's widely taught in universities, making it easier to find staff familiar with its features. Its integration capabilities and familiar toolbar also enhance usability compared to alternatives.

Switched from

[Cubit](https://www.capterra.com/p/126183/Cubit/)

I switched from Buildsoft in 2007 due to its lack of user-friendliness and manual take-offs, which required redundant remeasuring. In 2017, the shift to digital measurements improved speed and accuracy, reducing mistakes and manual checks for Ausco.

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

August 13, 2024

Hi Ben, Thanks for taking time to share your experience with CostX and for attending our Advisory Group meetup in Brisbane! We’re really pleased to hear that the software’s speed, accuracy, and integration with Revit and BIM have been valuable to your team at Ausco Modular. It’s great to know that features like Dimension Groups and Model Maps are helping you achieve better efficiency and precision in your work, and that the familiar, Excel-like design is making things easier for your team. We understand how important it is to feel heard as a valued customer – that’s why we're glad you had the opportunity to connect with our Product Development team in person today. Your insights are important to us and we’re actively looking at ways to work collaboratively with users to incorporate feedback. Once again, thank you for your support! If there's anything else you need help with, don't hesitate to reach out - we're here to assist.

DL

Dhanushka L.  
Quantity Surveyor  
Construction  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Estimating & Takeoff"

July 31, 2024

5.0

RIB CostX 3D model integration is not just a feature but a pivotal tool that enhances the entire estimating process. It brings accuracy, efficiency, and clarity to the table, making it an invaluable asset for construction professionals dealing with complex projects. Whether you're managing large-scale developments or intricate designs, this feature alone can transform how you approach and execute cost estimation.

Pros

RIB CostX’s ability to work with 3D models allows for exceptionally accurate takeoffs. The software’s integration with 3D BIM models ensures that measurements are precise, reducing the likelihood of errors that can occur with manual or 2D methods. This precision is crucial for producing reliable estimates and avoiding costly mistakes during the project lifecycle.

Cons

For smaller or less complex projects, RIB CostX’s extensive features might be more than what’s necessary.

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

August 9, 2024

Hi Dhanushka, Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts on RIB CostX! We're thrilled to hear that you find our 3D model integration to be a pivotal tool in the estimating process. Accuracy, efficiency, and clarity are indeed at the core of what we aim to deliver, and it's wonderful to know that our software enhances your work on complex projects. Regarding your comment about our extensive features potentially being more than necessary for smaller or less complex projects, we understand that not all projects require the full range of capabilities that RIB CostX offers. That’s why we offer a range of subscription options including CostX Complete, CostX Core and CostX Quantify to suit different needs. For example, CostX Core would be ideal for those who don’t require BIM capabilities or auto-revisioning but still want to leverage powerful takeoff tools. Once again, thank you for your review!

AE

Ahmed E.  
Managing Director  
Construction  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Senior Management Review - Ahmed Elhalouty"

July 31, 2024

4.0

Pros

Tracking measurement is good in CostX. However, it should be more easier than doing it in workbook

Cons

We Can't make sure that everything is measured as there are no layers function

Switched from

[Navisworks](https://www.capterra.com/p/233414/Navisworks/)

Navisworks is not as good as CostX in 2D measurement.

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

August 8, 2024

Hi Ahmed, thank you for sharing your feedback! We’re committed to making measurement as efficient and accurate as possible for our users so we’re pleased to hear that you’re finding this feature valuable. Regarding your comment about layers, CostX does support layer functionality however this feature requires the architect to provide a vector file for full functionality. For guidance on how to use this feature effectively, we recommend checking out our training video, which covers this in detail: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l5a5XkKiIk8 Hope this is helpful and thanks again for your review!

TB

Tony B.  
Senior Server Analyst  
Construction  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "CostX Review"

August 8, 2024

4.0

Again, the overall administration of the CostX software is very straightforward. As far as our end users are concerned, I believe they are satisfied with the product as well.

Pros

I am writing this as the admin of our CostX environment and, not an end user. Over all, administration of the product is straightforward as it applied to installing and updating both the CostX Server Admin and CostX client applications.

Cons

On the CostX Server side, I will say that the space required for the database when updating the software seems ridiculous. It seems that we need 3 times the space when updating the software and that is a waste of storage.

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

August 22, 2024

Hi Tony, Thank you for your review! We’re pleased to hear that you find the administration of CostX straightforward and it’s great to know that your end users are also happy with the product. Regarding the space needed for software updates, this is proportional to the amount of data in your database. To reduce the load on your internal IT resources, we suggest looking into upgrading to CostX Cloud. With CostX Cloud, our team takes care of all hosting and version upgrades, which can help simplify your operations and manage storage more effectively. Thank you again for sharing your experience!

MY

Mengmeng Y.  
Assistant quantity surveyor  
Construction  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Assistant quantity surveyor"

August 5, 2024

5.0

It is a powerful tool for accurate and efficient quantity surveying and cost estimating.

Pros

The ability to work on cloud-based projects and share information with team members.

Cons

There is lack of an "undo" feature when measuring dimensions.

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

August 13, 2024

Hi Mengmeng, Thank you for sharing your feedback on CostX! It’s great to hear that CostX Cloud has been beneficial for your team, allowing you to collaborate seamlessly with colleagues in different locations. With CostX Cloud, we also handle new version upgrades, allowing your team to focus on the work that matters most. Regarding the undo feature, you can undo any measurement you’ve taken using the shortcut Ctrl+ Z. I hope this helps with your workflow and thanks again for your review!

Phil M.  
Associate Director  
Construction  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Excellent QS tool for direct take off, estimating and producing schedules/bills of quantities."

January 10, 2018

5.0

We moved to digital taking off initially and a windows GUI from an old terminal window based system. The ability to view, section and walk round 3D models and have BIM extraction capabilities is most advantageous.

Pros

We moved to CostX completely as a QS practice a number of years ago and we find it a very powerful tool in producing all levels of estimates, bills/schedules of quantities and builders quants etc. It's the best software we've seen for a number of years and for the future with it's BIM capabilities also. With customised branded report formats available allow us to provide consistently high quality presentation documents. Staff were quick to pick up the basics of operation and quickly progress their skills in taking off and scheduling digitally. Regular updates from user feature requests and continually developing and improving the CostX software. Excellent customer support and follow up to ensure the best service is provided and maintained to resolve any issues found or queried.

Cons

Lack of ability to complete cut and fill exercises The only real downside is the inability to handle drawings in batches and without having to load them individually to edit their properties. We understand that this is a registered client feature request under review for development and greatly look forward to its implementation.

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

January 11, 2018

Hi Phil, Thanks so much for your great review! We are so pleased to hear that you find CostX such a powerful tool to use at Maltbys. It's great to hear that staff were able to pick up the program so quickly too! In regards to your comments on cut and fill, CostX supports the extraction of cut and fill volumes from other systems via BIM. Whilst there is no dedicated cut and fill takeoff, CostX supports volume calculations based on areas with heights applied and using dimension group formulas, users can also perform more advanced volume calculations. Additionally, you're correct in noting that bulk updates to drawing file scales is in the development roadmap- for now, CostX supports adding multiple drawing files at the same time or multiple sheets /pages from a single file and the scale can be set for all added drawings in bulk at the time of adding. CostX also now supports scale and calibration factor columns on the Drawings list so that scale is always visible. Thanks again!

CE

Charlie E.  
Quantity Surveyor - Pricing Manager  
Construction  
Used the software for: 6-12 months

### "Wouldn't Look Back"

August 12, 2018

5.0

I had been putting off getting any sort of software packages for a long time as I really liked doing manual take offs and using spreadsheets. Cost X was very easy to change to after doing these type of take offs. I wouldn't look back now. I have had a new graduate start with me and it is very easy to teach them (as most of it has already been set up by me), this also keeps uniformity over take offs. One of the biggest advantages for us being a residential / light commercial building company is that we seem to have a lot of revisions over a job up until contract stage - the revision tool has been great for this and makes doing a series of changes from one plan to the next a breeze and a report can give a detailed breakdown of the changes at these revision points.

Pros

\- Really easy to get started, just set out dimensions as you would manually, set out your spreadsheets and link the two up. The more you use it, the more you learn, and it just keeps getting better. - No need to save all the time as all your work is up to date. - Easily relates to excel spreadsheets. - Data from spreadsheets can be exported or imported with ease. - Importing of .dwg files directly from the drawing team makes measurements exact. Any mistakes in the drawing files can be picked up and relayed back to the drawing team before another revision. - When working on multiple build projects, it is a lot easy to open and close jobs from the same place compared to other applications where they would all be seperate files needing to be opened. - Being able to compare drawing files, ie; site plan over a subfloor plan to work out pile heights easily. - The ability to do measurements, add a legend with quantities, save as a PDF and provide to subcontractors. ie; joist layout for builder, measure of a full drainage plan for the drainlayer.

Cons

The only thing that I have found hard work is the report software provided with Cost X. This is mainly because I just haven't had the time to put into it. I can see that it will be very good, but can see that this is going to take some time to get what I want from it. Other than that I still was able to make up functional reports easy enough, just not to the level I would like yet.

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

September 3, 2018

Hi Charlie, thanks for your great review! We're so happy to hear that you're loving CostX! It's great to see you're getting full use from the functionality, and that the revisioning tool is making your life easier! With regards to the reporting, we do offer the standard report writer which allows you to create basic reports, but the custom report writer can be a little more complex. Because of this, we do offer training for it, so if you are interested in exploring it further that may be worthwhile. Thanks again!

DO

Darren O.  
Quantity Surveyor/ Manager  
Construction  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Cost X is functional, flexible and value for money. The technical support team are fantastic. "

October 19, 2017

5.0

Cost X gives me speed, I get more work tendered and so put the company in a position to grow quicker and be more profitable. Its flexible I have changed things to suit the type of work I'm pricing Its reliable I can trust the quantities and figures and makes negotiations simpler and more informed. Its value for money as I do believe it is worth and extra person in the office. Its accurate and consistent I know I have everything taken off and my rates are stable.

Pros

The software allows flexibility to suit the type of work we do. We are a specialist ventilation contractor and Cost X has taken us from manual drawing take off to a quick, simple and reliable system that you can review in seconds. We are organised and know a project inside out so we can negotiate contracts know that our figures and quantities can be relied on. We are also consistent in of pricing as quantities are accurate and rates are stable. The technical support team are amazing they provide a very prompt and professional service, they go to great lengths to get you back up and running as so as possible. Cost X is also value for money, I believe that it is worth one extra person in the office to me, the volume of work that can be done is excellent.

Cons

I do believe that training would really be essential for the correct use of the system, I did not get training but have still found it brilliant but I do believe if I was using it correctly I would probably get more from it. Also on the standalone version the back up button or procedure would need to be streamlined, as loosing data in Cost X is a huge lose to a company.

Review Source

Response from RIB Software

October 23, 2017

Hi Darren, Thanks for your amazing review! We really appreciate hearing your great comments, and will definitely pass your words onto the Tech team. Regarding back-up, it is always done automatically with network licences; its also possible to arrange automatic back up with standalone licences but you must set it up in Windows. Thanks again!

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