A Free and Handy Folder and File Comparing Application
Depending on the type of work that you have, you might need some folders constantly updated with the latest changes in your files. However, having to open both folders simultaneously to look for differences that might cause errors in the future can be a pain. Luckily, various tools can help you in this regard. A suitable example is DiffMerge. This file comparison app created by SourceGear gives you the possibility to view two documents side-by-side and have its differences automatically highlighted. It can also compare couples of folders based on different rules and provide detailed reports.
Spot the Difference
DiffMerge is specifically designed to offer great comfort when you are using programming languages. As mentioned, the app relies on a set of different rules to identify differences. Loading a file splits the main window into two sections, with one showing the original file while the other displays the modified one. With this, you can view the two files at once to see if there’s anything amiss. If you wish to view three files at once, you may do so with the app. Using the three-way difference manager, you can view the original file in the center sandwiched between the two modified files.
Folder comparison works the same way. The app displays the files of selected directories with the possibility of opening the files with differences in a separate manager for further editing. DiffMerge supports multiple tabs to help users compare the folders and files better. The comparison viewer is pretty intuitive, displaying the differences on individual rows in a tree list, with colors to indicate the types of differences. The app even allows you to define the colors yourself.
However, as far as the visual design is concerned, DiffMerge can be quite confusing and overwhelming, especially if you are not familiar with this kind of software. There are a variety of functions at your disposal that you might need time to learn how each of them works. Once you get the hang of it, though, it can make your work a little easier.
Edit or Merge
Once DiffMerge finds all the differences in your file, you are free to edit the documents. While the management window is active, you are free to modify the content of the newer file or copy the whole content of the original file. This function works for both the side-by-side comparison and the three-way comparison. The app even lets you import the differences between the two files to the original document.
Unfortunately, the folder and file merging options can be a little difficult to use. You can only copy from one of the sides, and you would have to be extra cautious when saving the files because the app does not ask you whether or not a new file is to be created. Once you hit the save button, your original file will be overwritten.
To End With
Taking everything into consideration, it is safe to say that DiffMerge is a powerful tool that you can use to compare, analyze, and synchronize your files and folders. The app has an abundance of management tools at your disposal, making it perfect for those who speak coding as their mother language. However, while the app easily spots the differences in your documents, you must still take caution, especially when editing and saving.
