What is WinMerge & How You Can Use it to Compare Files

WinMerge is a free tool that helps people compare and combine different versions of files and folders. It shows the differences between them, making it easier to see what has changed. This can be really helpful for those who work with coding, content creation, or anyone who needs to keep track of changes in documents or directories.

In this guide, we will explore exactly how WinMerge works and how you can use it to easily compare files.

What Does WinMerge Do?

WinMerge operates as a versatile program with a graphical user interface (GUI) for contrasting and merging files and folders. It’s key for those needing version control and synchronization.

Its abilities include handling text and code files, with features like syntax highlighting to emphasize code structure, three-way comparison for a broader view of changes, and inline editing for direct adjustments within the tool. Being open-source, developers and professionals can use and modify it freely, making it an invaluable resource at no cost.

• Comparing Files: It highlights differences in text and code, showing what’s changed.
• Three-Way Comparison: You can view three versions at once to understand changes better.
• Syntax Highlighting: Makes reading code easier by emphasizing parts according to programming language rules.
• Inline Editing: Allows quick changes directly within the comparison view.

How WinMerge Works

WinMerge works by taking two or three files or folders and displaying them side by side, highlighting differences in content. For code files, syntax highlighting helps in understanding the changes based on programming language rules. Users can then merge the changes using inline editing, synchronizing the files or folders.

Its graphical user interface is designed to simplify these tasks, making it easier for users to compare, understand, and integrate changes, all within one tool. Whether dealing with text or code, WinMerge offers an efficient way to manage and track variations across different versions.

How to Use WinMerge?

Using WinMerge might seem tricky but it’s very simple with our easy-to-follow steps:

Step 1: Downloading WinMerge

Download and install WinMerge from the official WinMerge website. Start by opening the WinMerge application on your computer once it is installed on your system.

Step 2: Selecting Files or Folders

Once opened, press “CTRL+O” to open files or folders on the WinMerge program. You’ll see an option like the picture given below which will allow you to browse 2 or 3 folders or files at one time.

Step 3: Comparing

Once you have selected your desired files, click on the arrow beside “Compare” and choose your desired mode of comparing the files. Click on it and a new window will appear.

Step 4: Modify and Make Changes

On this next screen, you will see a 2 or 3-pane window view depending on how many files or folders you selected. You have a wide range of options on the top bar to assist you in making the required changes.

Distinctions between the two documents will be emphasized. Similar lines are shown in white, while differences are emphasized in color (by default, red for lines that have been deleted and green for lines that have been added).

Step 5: Merge Changes

Right-clicking on a difference and selecting choices like “Copy to Right” or “Copy to Left” will allow you to merge changes from one file to the other.

Step 6: Saving Merged Files

After making edits and merging the files, you can save the new version by going to the “File” menu and choosing “Save As“. You can choose to save the relevant file by further going to “Save Left As” or “Save Right As“.

How to Compare Folders

WinMerge also offers folder comparison, and this is how you can compare folders using WinMerge:

Step 1: Access WinMerge and Choose Folders

Open WinMerge and choose the Folders symbol from the menu bar. To compare several folders, just choose them in the pop-up window and click the Compare button.

Step 2: Check Comparison Results

The comparison results will load in just a second or two. It will show you whether the folders and the files are same or not. You can instantly distinguish between similar files, unique files, and binary files thanks to the color-coded display.

Step 3: Make Modifications

You can make modifications right in the WinMerge interface if you have the proper permissions to do so. To combine edits, just copy lines or blocks from one side to the other using the buttons in the toolbar or the menu that appears when you right-click. This is very helpful when trying to merge many versions of a file into one.

Step 4: Save Changes

Once the discrepancies have been ironed out, the combined file is saved by going to the “File” menu and selecting “Save As.”

Note: The comparison view in WinMerge is adjusted to fit your needs. To better see and understand the distinctions, you can modify settings like line wrapping, synchronized scrolling, and whitespace visibility.

Important: Resolve Conflict Files

Conflicts between files are a common side effect of using a version management system like Git. If there are incompatible files, the version control system will not let you add your modifications to the change log.

However, software like WinMerge can help you reconcile the discrepancies. When two files are in disagreement, WinMerge can combine them into one. This method compares and merges the changes made to a file between two different versions. A new file with a single intended revision level is produced.

WinMerge is set to activate mechanically whenever a file conflict occurs. When using Git, this function is invaluable for merging files. WinMerge’s Compare window will display the offending file after a conflict has been found.

All conflict marks will be included in the file, and a tooltip will be presented to clarify the disagreement. The discrepancies between the files will be shown in the comparison pane. You can also indicate text changes with line differences if you want. Each line’s background color will update as a result of this action.

WinMerge vs. Beyond Compare

When it comes to file comparison and synchronization tools, both WinMerge and Beyond Compare have made a name for themselves in the industry. While they share some fundamental functionalities, they are distinct in design, features, and use cases. Let’s look at the nuances that set these two powerful tools apart in this table.

In summary, WinMerge is more suitable for straightforward text and code comparison needs, particularly for those seeking a free, open-source solution. Beyond Compare, on the other hand, provides more extensive features and flexibility, catering to professionals who require advanced comparison capabilities, but at a cost.

Conclusion

WinMerge’s ability to simplify the intricate process of comparing and merging various versions of files sets it apart as an essential tool. Its adaptability and open-source nature make it suitable for a broad spectrum of users, not just professionals in coding or content creation.

For those in search of an efficient, no-cost solution to managing files and folders, WinMerge represents a resourceful option, bringing clarity and control to a traditionally complex task.

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