How to Compare Two Files in Notepad++ Without a Plugin

Comparing files is a common task for developers, writers, and anyone who works with text documents. Notepad++ is a popular text editor, but users often wonder if it’s possible to compare files directly within Notepad++ without relying on external plugins. While Notepad++ is renowned for its plugin ecosystem that extends functionality, you might be surprised to learn that you can achieve basic file comparison using Notepad++’s built-in features and some manual techniques. This article will guide you through the process of how to compare two files in Notepad++ without a plugin, offering a straightforward approach for identifying differences.

While dedicated plugins like ComparePlus offer robust side-by-side comparison with visual cues and difference highlighting, sometimes a simpler, plugin-free method is sufficient, especially for quick checks or when plugin installation isn’t feasible. This method focuses on manual comparison, leveraging Notepad++’s multi-view capabilities to place files side-by-side for visual inspection.

Here’s how you can compare two files in Notepad++ without installing any additional plugins:

1. Open Both Files in Notepad++: Begin by opening the two files you wish to compare within Notepad++. You can do this by going to File > Open or simply dragging and dropping the files into the Notepad++ window.

2. Utilize Notepad++’s Clone to Other View Feature: Once both files are open, select one of the files to be the primary view. Then, go to View > Clone to Other View. This action duplicates the content of the active file into a new view, effectively placing the same file side-by-side.

3. Navigate to the Second File in the Cloned View: In the newly created cloned view (which initially shows a duplicate of the first file), navigate to and select the second file you want to compare. You can do this by using File > Open again within the cloned view, or by using the window list (if you have it enabled) to switch to the second file in that view. Now, you should have each of your files displayed side-by-side in Notepad++.

4. Manually Compare Line by Line: With both files visible simultaneously, you can now manually scroll through and visually compare the content line by line. Look for differences in text, added or removed lines, and variations in formatting.

5. Basic Visual Aids (Optional): While this method is primarily visual, you can enhance your manual comparison by:

   • Line Numbers: Ensure line numbers are visible (View > Show Line Number) in both views to help track lines as you compare.
   • Syntax Highlighting: Notepad++’s syntax highlighting can help differentiate code elements, making it easier to spot changes in code files. Make sure the correct language is selected for both files (Language menu).

Limitations of Plugin-Free Comparison:

It’s important to acknowledge the limitations of this manual method compared to using a dedicated file comparison plugin:

• No Automatic Difference Highlighting: Unlike plugins, this method does not automatically highlight or mark differences. You rely solely on your visual acuity to spot discrepancies.
• Time-Consuming for Large Files: Manually comparing large files can be tedious and time-consuming.
• Error-Prone: Human error is more likely in manual comparison, especially with lengthy or complex files.
• Lack of Advanced Features: Features like line-by-line diff reports, merging capabilities, and ignoring whitespace changes, which are common in comparison plugins, are absent in this manual approach.

When to Use Plugin-Free Comparison:

Despite its limitations, comparing files in Notepad++ without a plugin can be useful in certain situations:

• Quick, Simple Comparisons: For quickly checking minor differences between small files.
• Plugin Installation Not Possible: When you cannot install plugins due to restrictions or temporary environments.
• Learning and Understanding Differences: Manual comparison can sometimes be beneficial for truly understanding the nature of the differences between files, rather than just relying on automated tools.

Conclusion:

While Notepad++’s plugin ecosystem offers powerful tools for file comparison, it is indeed possible to compare two files in Notepad++ without a plugin. By utilizing the “Clone to Other View” feature, you can place files side-by-side for manual visual comparison. Although this method lacks the advanced features and efficiency of plugins, it serves as a viable option for basic comparison needs and situations where plugins are not desired or available. For more frequent or complex file comparison tasks, exploring plugins like ComparePlus is highly recommended to enhance efficiency and accuracy. However, for a quick and simple check, Notepad++’s built-in capabilities are sufficient to get the job done.