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WinMerge
What it is
WinMerge is a free Windows application that compares files and folders and shows differences visually for merging. It can run independently or serve as an external differencing and merge tool. File comparison includes three-way views, syntax highlighting, word wrap, and moved-line detection. Folder comparisons can include subfolders, use regular-expression filters, and compare files by size and date. Image comparison highlights differences with blocks or overlays, while CSV and TSV views place contents in columns with text wrapping. WinMerge can create patch files and resolve conflict files. Windows shell integration, 7-Zip archive support, and plugins extend its workflow. The 32-bit installer requires Windows XP SP3 or newer, while the 64-bit installer requires Windows 7 or newer. Version 2.16.58.2, released on 2026-08-27, is identified as current. The project is open source under the GNU General Public License and maintained by volunteers. Support uses discussion forums, and bug reports should include version details and, when possible, a configuration log.
For and against
For
- Three-way file comparison
- Folder filters and subfolder comparison
- Image blocks and overlay views
- CSV and TSV column comparison
- Shell, archive, and plugin support
Against
- Windows-only application
- Different minimum Windows versions for 32-bit and 64-bit installers
- Distributed without warranty
- Maintained by volunteers
The verdict
WinMerge covers file, folder, image, and table comparison in one Windows tool, with merge and conflict-handling functions. Its installer requirements and no-warranty license should be checked before adoption.
Who it suits
WinMerge suits Windows users comparing source files, folders, images, or tabular data. It also fits workflows involving three-way merges, patches, conflict files, and version-control tasks.
Plans and prices
WinMerge
Open source under the GNU General Public License
Read 2 Oct 2026 · winmerge.org
On the record
- Current release
- Version 2.16.58.2 was released on 2026-08-27 and is identified as the current version.winmerge.org · read 2 Oct 2026
- Development
- WinMerge is maintained and developed by volunteers.winmerge.org · read 2 Oct 2026
- File comparison
- It supports three-way file comparisons, syntax highlighting, word wrap, and detection of moved lines.winmerge.org · read 2 Oct 2026
- Folder comparison
- Folder comparisons can use regular-expression file filters, compare files by size and date, and include subfolders.winmerge.org · read 2 Oct 2026
- Image comparison
- Image comparison can highlight differences with blocks and overlay images.winmerge.org · read 2 Oct 2026
- Integrations
- WinMerge offers Windows shell integration, archive support using 7-Zip, and plugin support.winmerge.org · read 2 Oct 2026
- Purpose
- WinMerge compares files and folders and presents differences visually for merging.winmerge.org · read 2 Oct 2026
- Requirements
- The download page lists Windows XP SP3 or newer for the 32-bit installer and Windows 7 or newer for the 64-bit installer.winmerge.org · read 2 Oct 2026
- Security and warranty
- The license text says WinMerge is distributed without any warranty, including implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.winmerge.org · read 2 Oct 2026
- Support
- The support page directs users to discussion forums and asks bug reporters to include the WinMerge version and, if possible, a configuration log.winmerge.org · read 2 Oct 2026
- Table comparison
- Table comparison displays CSV and TSV contents in columns and can wrap text in each column.winmerge.org · read 2 Oct 2026
- Use
- WinMerge can be used as a standalone application or as an external differencing and merging tool.winmerge.org · read 2 Oct 2026
- Version control
- WinMerge can create patch files and resolve conflict files.winmerge.org · read 2 Oct 2026
