Kompare review
A free Linux diff and merge tool for files, folders, patches, and basic workflows.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Kompare is a free, open-source KDE desktop application for comparing and merging source files or folder contents. It is designed for Linux users who need a graphical way to inspect changes, move through differences across multiple files, and work with patches. Its scope suits individual developers and technical users handling straightforward file comparisons, recursive folder checks, and two-source merges.
The core feature set covers more than a single-file side-by-side view. Kompare can recursively compare folder contents, navigate differences across multiple files, and apply or revert selected changes. It also supports multiple diff formats, creates patches, and applies patches. Diff output can be opened from the command line or standard input, giving the tool a practical place in command-line-centered workflows while retaining a desktop interface. KDE distributes it for Linux through distribution package managers and Flathub.
Kompare is a focused choice rather than a broad collaboration or repository-management product. Its documented comparison and merge scope is two-way, making it appropriate for direct source-versus-source review and basic patch workflows. Linux users looking for free, open-source desktop software with folder comparison and patch handling should consider it. Teams needing a wider platform range or workflows beyond direct two-source comparison should choose a different tool.
Kompare pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Recursively compares folder contents and navigates multiple changed files
- Creates, applies, and reverts selected differences in patches
- Supports multiple diff formats plus command-line and standard-input output
- Where it doesn't
- Available for Linux desktop environments only
- Uses a two-source comparison and merge scope
- Focused on basic diff, merge, and patch workflows
Kompare fact sheet, pricing and score →
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Last updated · How we research and update