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Code Compare review

Freemium#10 of 28 in Diff and Merge ToolsFile Comparison Software

A capable Windows diff tool with a free edition and deeper Pro merging features.

8.3/10Editor score
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Code Compare8.3 Visit Code Compare

Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

Code Compare is a Windows desktop tool for comparing and merging files, folders, and source code. It suits developers and software teams that need visual diffs, folder synchronization, version-control integrations, or a merge utility connected to Visual Studio and Windows Explorer. The free edition covers two-way file and folder comparison and merge, syntax highlighting, and inline change display. A command-line interface also supports comparison of files or folders, while the standalone application and Visual Studio extension provide different ways to fit the tool into a development workflow.

The plan structure is straightforward. Free includes two-way comparison and merge, folder comparison, syntax highlighting, and integrations with Visual Studio, Windows Explorer, and version-control systems. Pro costs $69.95 as a one-time payment and adds three-way comparison and merge, structure comparison for supported programming languages, advanced change navigation, and additional code-comparison features. The paid edition uses a perpetual license, so it is suited to teams that prefer a single purchase over recurring software charges. The free plan gives individual developers a practical starting point, while Pro is the relevant choice for more involved merge work.

Code Compare’s main strength is its combination of file-level, folder-level, and source-code workflows. Git, TFS, SVN, Mercurial, Perforce, Visual Studio, Windows Explorer, and Android Studio integrations give it useful coverage across development environments, and folder synchronization extends its scope beyond isolated file diffs. Its main boundary is platform: the product is focused on Windows desktop use. Developers who need macOS or Linux support should choose an alternative, while Windows users wanting a free diff tool or an affordable perpetual upgrade have a clear fit. Teams that depend on three-way merging should budget for Pro.

Code Compare pros and cons

  • Where it wins
    • Free two-way file, folder, and merge features
    • Pro adds three-way and structural source-code comparison
    • Integrates with Git, Visual Studio, and Windows Explorer
  • Where it doesn't
    • Available only for Windows desktop
    • Three-way comparison and merge require Pro
    • Structural comparison is limited to supported programming languages

Code Compare fact sheet, pricing and score →

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