WinMerge v2.16.59 - Free Open-Source File & Folder Diff and Merge Tool
WinMerge is a free, opensource differencing and merging tool for Windows that visually compares files and folders side by side, highlighting changes down...
Technical Specifications & System Requirements
Software notes
About & Overview: WinMerge: Free Open-Source File & Folder Diff and Merge Tool
WinMerge is a free, open-source differencing and merging tool for Windows that visually compares files and folders side by side, highlighting changes down to the character level. It handles plain text, images, and CSV tables, creates patch files, resolves merge conflicts with 2-way and 3-way merge, and adds itself to Explorer's right-click menu. A long-standing staple for developers, translators, and anyone who needs to answer 'what changed between these two files?'
How to Install & Verify WinMerge
Download WinMerge from the official vendor link on this page.
Open the downloaded file and follow the on-screen installation steps.
Start WinMerge from the Start menu or desktop shortcut.
Frequently Asked Questions & Verification Guide
Is WinMerge really free?
Yes. WinMerge is open-source software released under the GPL — free for personal and commercial use, with no ads, trials, or feature limits.
Can WinMerge compare entire folders, not just files?
Yes. Folder compare shows which files differ, are missing, or are identical, with filters to skip things like .git folders or build output, plus a 3-way folder merge mode.
Does WinMerge work on Windows 11?
Yes. Current releases ship x64 and ARM64 installers for Windows 7 through 11, plus portable builds that run without installation.
Can WinMerge create patch files?
Yes — it generates patches in normal, context, and unified formats from any file comparison, ready to share or apply elsewhere.