Comparison · reviewed 2026-10-04
CostKit vs Clear Estimates: which one fits your work?
Compare the work each product supports and the terms of its pricing. This guide is published by CostKit; it is not an independent performance benchmark.
Clear Estimates lists unlimited AI estimates, a cost library, templates and payable invoices in Standard. Pro adds image and plan uploads. Test the workflow against your own scopes and rates.
CostKit drafts phase-by-phase estimates from your scope and measurements. Review all quantities and pricing references against site conditions and supplier quotes before sharing.
Pricing and billing terms
CostKit: Free includes 2 estimates/month and watermarked PDFs. Starter is $39/month, Pro $89/month and Team $179/month (5 seats). Annual billing is $360, $840 and $1,680 respectively. Paid plans include editing, branding and client delivery. See current plan limits.
Clear Estimates
- Standard: $79/month
Monthly billing. Annual option: $59/month billed annually ($708/year).
- Pro: $119/month
Monthly billing. Annual option: $99/month billed annually ($1,188/year).
- Franchise: $249+/month
Monthly billing; request a quote for your configuration.
- Trial: 30 days
Confirm current terms with vendor.
Prices are USD where shown. Vendor offers, taxes, seats and contract terms can change. A monthly equivalent is not necessarily a monthly payment option.
Workflow comparison
| Workflow | CostKit | Clear Estimates |
|---|---|---|
| Starting information | Your project description, location and measurements | Estimating with a cost library, templates and AI assistance. |
| AI and takeoff | AI first-pass estimating; supported PDF upload reads written schedules and notes, not drawing dimensions or symbols | AI estimating; Pro adds image and plan uploads |
| Cost check | Review available pricing references, allowances and exclusions | Test against your own measurements, quotes and job requirements |
When to evaluate Clear Estimates
- You want a template and cost-library workflow.
- You need the invoicing features listed in your chosen plan.
When to try CostKit
- You want to draft a first-pass estimate from a written scope.
- You can supply measurements and review the result before sending it.
- You want to try an anonymous preview before choosing a subscription.
Clear Estimates: features to evaluate
- Cost library and templates
- AI estimating included in Standard
Questions to resolve before buying
- Annual equivalents require annual billing.
- Check whether uploads or integrations require Pro.
Choosing a tool
Choose based on the workflow you need. Trial Clear Estimates against your drawing, integration and team requirements; try CostKit for a description-based first pass. We have not run a controlled speed or accuracy comparison.
Official sources
Reviewed 2026-10-04. Follow the vendor links to confirm current terms; any unverified details are marked above.
Try a first-pass estimate
Use the anonymous preview and check it against a job you know. No credit card required.
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