How to Use TextFileCompare.com

TextFileCompare.com is a free online tool to compare two text files or code blocks side-by-side. Whether you're reviewing code changes, checking document versions, or merging config files, here’s how to use the tool effectively:

1 Enter or Paste Text

• Type or paste the original content into the left editor.
• Paste or type the modified content into the right editor.
• Live line count indicators update below each panel.

2 Upload Files

• Use the Choose File buttons to upload files (.txt, .js, .html, .php, .css, etc.).
• Click Upload to load them into the comparison interface.
• Language detection is automatic based on file extension or content.

3 Select Comparison Options

Auto‑Compare: Runs the diff automatically when text changes.
Word‑Level Diff: Highlights added or removed words inline.
Mode: Override auto-detection if needed.

4 Run Comparison & Merge

Compare: Shows the line-by-line visual diff.
Close Diff: Hides the comparison panel.
Swap Texts: Switches left and right editors (disabled if any side is empty).
Smart Merge: Automatically merges with visible conflict blocks like Git.
Undo Merge: Revert the last Smart Merge result.

5 Export & Download

• Download: Saves the left panel as merged.txt.
• Export: Generate unified diff (patch) or HTML output.
• Copy: Use "Copy Diff" from the "More" menu to copy to clipboard.

6 More Tools & Shortcuts

• Undo/Redo: Use buttons or Ctrl+Z, Ctrl+Y.
• Search: Locate keywords across both panels.
• Collapse Identical Lines: Hides unchanged blocks for clarity.
• Font Size: Adjust using A+ / A– for better readability.
• Inline View: Toggle between side-by-side and inline diff.

7 Dark/Light Theme

Toggle the theme from the top-right switch. The editor and diff colors will auto-adjust and remember your preference.

8 Keyboard Shortcuts

• Ctrl + Enter: Compare
• Ctrl + L: Clear All
• Alt + ← / →: Merge Left/Right
• Ctrl + S: Swap Texts
• Ctrl + U: Upload
• Ctrl + D: Download
• Ctrl + Z: Undo
• Ctrl + Y: Redo

9 Session Persistence

Text, mode, and preferences are automatically saved in your browser. Refresh or return later to continue from where you left off.