Windows · GPLv2 · Free
See every change.Merge with confidence.
A free visual diff and merge tool for Windows. Compare files and folders side by side, resolve conflicts, and sync trees with clarity.
Built for real compare work
Three strengths that stay out of your way.
01
Side-by-side compare
Locked panes, clear highlights, and in-line hits so you never lose the line you need.
02
Folder sync
Recursive trees, filters, and status views for configs, builds, and deploy folders.
03
Merge & patch
Apply hunks or export Normal, Context, and Unified patches in one pass.
From open to merge in four steps
A short path from install to a confident merge decision.
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Pick the architecture pack
Grab x64, ARM64, or x86 from Download. Prefer SHA-256 verification before you run Setup.
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Select paths or Explorer items
Use Select Files or Folders, or shell integration so a right-clicked item becomes the left pane.
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Read the visual delta
Side-by-side panes, in-line highlights, difference pane, and location map keep large files navigable.
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Merge, patch, or sync
Apply hunks, create Normal/Context/Unified patches, or sync folders with filters and 3-way views.
What ships in the stable line
Compare, patch, shell, and archive tools included with WinMerge 2.16.56.2.
Image & table compare
Block and overlay image diffs. CSV/TSV table view with per-column wrapping for export reviews.
Patches
Normal, Context, and Unified output for review and sharing.
Shell
64-bit Explorer menus with predictable left/right order.
Archives & plugins
7-Zip browsing with signature detection for packages like .jar and OpenOffice. Plugin unpackers and a localizable UI.
Performance levers
Fast size/date folder passes, Quick Contents thresholds for large files, and rescan delay while you type.
How WinMerge sits among diff tools
A quick read of license, depth, and what you pay to start.
| Capability | WinMerge | Typical commercial | Generic free |
|---|---|---|---|
| License model | GPLv2 · free | Paid license | GPL / free |
| Native Windows focus | Yes (Win32 · shell · x64/ARM64) | Yes | Varies |
| 3-way compare | File & folder | Strong suite | Limited |
| Image / table compare | Built-in | Often add-on | Rare |
| Typical cost to start | $0 | Paid | $0 |
Download WinMerge 2.16.56.2
Free for Windows · GPLv2 · x64, ARM64 & x86