Diffract review
A capable free-first diff tool with cross-platform support and Pro merging features.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Diffract is a desktop diff and merge application for developers working with source code, folders, documents, and binary files. It runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, and supports both graphical and command-line workflows. The Free plan includes unlimited file and directory diffs, syntax highlighting for 30+ languages, three diff algorithms, and hex and binary comparison. That makes it a practical fit for users who need broad comparison coverage without an upfront license cost.
Pricing is divided between Free and Pro. Free costs $0 USD forever and includes the desktop app, CLI access, unlimited file and directory diffs, syntax highlighting, standard, Myers, and patience algorithms, and binary comparison. Pro costs $34 USD per seat and adds three-way merge, PDF, Excel, and Word comparison, semantic code comparison, Git integration, and a Git history browser. The Pro license is one-time and includes v1.x updates, while the free tier includes a 7-day Pro trial. Prices are displayed in regional currency at checkout.
Diffract’s main strength is its range within a local desktop tool. Users can compare folders recursively, view side-by-side code with syntax highlighting, browse Git history, and configure Diffract as a Git difftool or mergetool. Comparisons run locally, so files stay on the computer. The free tier suits file, directory, code, and binary comparisons, while Pro is the relevant choice for three-way merges, document formats, semantic comparison, and Git workflows. Users seeking a desktop-focused tool with broader merge and document capabilities should consider Diffract; those needing integrations beyond Git or a non-desktop workflow should look elsewhere.
Diffract pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Free plan includes unlimited file and directory diffs
- Supports Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Pro adds three-way merge, Git, and document comparison
- Where it doesn't
- Three-way merge is available only in Pro
- The product is focused on desktop workflows
- Git is the listed integration
Diffract fact sheet, pricing and score →
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