How to Compare Two Text Files in Visual Studio Code

Visual Studio Code (VS Code) provides robust features for comparing text files, streamlining the process of identifying differences. This guide outlines various methods for comparing files within VS Code, empowering you to efficiently analyze changes and collaborate effectively.

Comparing Files in VS Code

VS Code offers multiple ways to compare files, catering to different scenarios and workflows.

Comparing with an Active File

With an active file open in the editor, you can compare it with:

Workspace File: Use the command File: Compare Active File With… from the Command Palette (Ctrl+Shift+P) and select the desired file for comparison.
Clipboard Content: Utilize the command File: Compare Active File with Clipboard (Ctrl+K C) to compare the active file with the contents of your clipboard.
Saved Version: Employ the command File: Compare Active File with Saved (Ctrl+K D) to compare the current version with the last saved iteration.

Comparing Any Two Files

To compare any two files within your workspace:

Select for Compare: Right-click the first file in the Explorer view and choose Select for Compare. Right-click the second file and select Compare with Selected.
Compare New Untitled Files: If you need to compare two new files, use the File: Compare New Untitled Text Files command from the Command Palette.

Utilizing the Command Line

VS Code’s command-line interface (CLI) offers a convenient way to compare files directly. Launch VS Code with the --diff option followed by the paths of the two files you want to compare:

code --diff file1.txt file2.txt

Understanding the Comparison View

Once a comparison is initiated, VS Code presents a side-by-side view highlighting the differences between the files. Additions are typically marked in green, while deletions are indicated in red.

Navigating and Utilizing Comparison Results

VS Code facilitates efficient navigation through comparison results:

Jump to Differences: Use the navigation arrows (or F7 and Shift+F7) in the diff viewer to jump between changes.
Inline Differences: VS Code displays inline differences within the editor, providing a clear visual representation of additions and deletions.
Merge Changes: You can directly edit the files within the comparison view, making it easy to merge changes or resolve conflicts.

Customization Options

VS Code allows you to customize the appearance and behavior of the file comparison feature:

Compare Layout: Control the layout of the comparison view (side-by-side or inline) using the diffEditor.renderSideBySide setting.
Ignore Whitespace: Configure VS Code to ignore whitespace changes during comparison using the diffEditor.ignoreTrimWhitespace setting.
Color Customization: Customize the colors used to highlight differences through VS Code’s theme and color customization options.

Conclusion

VS Code’s comprehensive file comparison capabilities provide a powerful toolset for developers and writers. By understanding the various methods for comparing files and utilizing the available navigation and customization features, you can enhance your workflow and streamline the process of identifying and managing changes. Explore these features to elevate your productivity within VS Code.