Joist Got You Started.
BidOrca Keeps You Going.
Joist was great when you were getting off the ground. But if you've been hitting its limits — one PDF template, no AI, no e-signatures — it might be time.
Honest Comparison
Joist does some things well. Here's where the two apps are different.
| Feature | BidOrca | Joist |
|---|---|---|
| AI-Powered Estimates | ||
| PDF Templates | 4 templates | 1 template |
| E-Signatures | ||
| Customer Portal | ||
| QuickBooks Sync | Limited | |
| Online Payments | ||
| Invoicing | ||
| Price Book | ||
| Photo Estimates | ||
| Free Tier | Limited |
The Stuff Joist Doesn't Have (Yet)
These are the features that make contractors switch. Not because Joist is bad — just because they need more.
AI Estimates
Photo of the job site + a description of the scope = full estimate in about 45 seconds. This one's a game changer.
4 PDF Templates
Pick a layout that looks like your business, not everyone else's. Joist gives you one option.
E-Signatures
Customer approves from their phone. No printing, no scanning, no "I'll sign it when I get home."
Customer Portal
Your clients see all their estimates and invoices in one place. Cuts down on the "can you resend that?" emails.
Real QuickBooks Sync
Two-way sync that actually works. Invoices, customers, payments. No manual entry.
Free Plan That Doesn't Expire
5 estimates, 3 invoices per month. No trial. No countdown timer. Just free.
Where Joist Falls Short
Things we hear from contractors who tried both
Every Estimate Is Manual
Joist makes you build each estimate line by line, every single time. No AI, no shortcuts. If you're doing 8+ estimates a week, that adds up fast.
One PDF Template
You get one layout. Can't really make it look like your brand. If you want your bids to stand out, you're stuck.
No Client Portal
There's no way for your customers to look up their own estimates or invoices. So they email you. Every time.
Stability Issues
We've heard from a lot of Android users that the app crashes or loses work. To be fair, they might have fixed this — but it came up a lot.
Try Both. See What Fits.
No commitment. No credit card. Keep Joist running while you test BidOrca. You'll know pretty quick which one works better for you.
Switch to BidOrca Free