A Concise Comparison of Earthwork Volume, Machine Control & Takeoff CAD Software
When evaluating construction takeoff and earthwork modeling software, two of the most trusted names in the industry are Carlson Construction and AGTEK Gradework. Both provide unique tools to estimate material quantities, calculate volumes, and streamline site modeling. However, the right choice depends on your workflow, level of design involvement, and long-term cost strategy.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you decide which solution is right for your operation.
Overview - Two Different Approaches
Carlson Construction offers a full 3D surface modeling, takeoff, construction staking, and CAD design environment, which operates on either AutoCAD® or IntelliCAD®. It’s designed for contractors, surveyors, and civil engineers who want total control from plan to field. In addition, most contractors use the module in conjunction with Carlson CADnet to convert PDF/BIM vectorized plans directly into native CAD files.
AGTEK focuses primarily on quick takeoffs and surface modeling for large-scale earthwork contractors. It’s efficient, but less design-oriented, with fewer built-in CAD capabilities.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Carlson Construction | AGTEK Gradework |
|---|---|---|
| CAD Integration | Full CAD-based environment (AutoCAD® or IntelliCAD®) | Limited CAD drawing, steep learning curve, and editing tools |
| 3D Site Modeling | Complete site, road, and pad modeling | Focused on surface-to-surface volumes |
| File Support | DWG, DXF, LandXML, DGN, and more | Multiple file types but limited customizations |
| Takeoff Automation | Recognizes layers, calculates strata volumes, and builds 3D models | Strong surface comparison workflows |
| Machine Control Export | Direct export to Carlson Grade, Trimble, Topcon, Leica | Supports common formats |
| Licensing |
Perpetual (one-time purchase) Annual Software Maintenance updates available $3,950 - perpetual license $395/year for maintenance updates |
Perpetual license or Annual Recurring Subscription $20,000 - perpetual license -OR- $7,300 - annual recurring subscription |
| Support & Training |
Free U.S.-based support and online learning resources Custom training available at additional expense |
$1,200 - Annual support for perpetual license Custom training available at additional expense |
Why Professionals Choose Carlson Construction
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Familiar CAD Workflow - Operates within AutoCAD® or IntelliCAD® for smooth design-to-takeoff workflows
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Full Ownership - One-time purchase — no ongoing subscription required
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Design Flexibility - Ideal for contractors who design and build — not just estimate
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Interoperability - Compatible with GPS machine control systems and integrates with Carlson Trench, CADnet, and Survey
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U.S.-Based Support - Get responsive assistance by phone or email
Which Software Is Right for You?
If your projects require CAD integration, detailed site modeling, machine control compatibility, and long-term ownership value; Carlson Construction is the clear choice. If you need a simpler tool for short-term earthwork comparisons, AGTEK Gradework may fit the need — but with limitations and a significant higher entry price point.
Ready to start a demo?
Both Carlson Construction and AGTEK offer strong tools for takeoff and earthwork modeling. However, Carlson Construction stands out for its CAD-based design capabilities, perpetual licensing, and flexible integration with land surveying and machine control workflows — giving contractors more power, faster ROI, and long-term value.
👉 Learn more about Carlson Construction
