Visual Studio Code Compare Two Files Like a Pro!

Honestly, have you ever tried comparing two files manually? If so, you know how frustrating it can be. Fortunately, Visual Studio Code lets you compare two files in an easy and efficient way. In fact, I used to struggle with this, but now, I can do it in seconds. So, let’s dive into the best methods right away!

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Why Compare Two Files in Visual Studio Code?

If you’re wondering why comparing files is necessary, let me tell you. First, spotting tiny differences in code can prevent serious bugs. Second, checking for unwanted edits helps keep everything organized. Third, version control becomes easier, even without Git. Because of these reasons, VS Code’s file comparison feature is a lifesaver.

Built-in Methods to Compare Files in VS Code

1️⃣ Using the “Compare Selected” Option 🖱️

This method works best when both files are in the Explorer panel.

First, open the Explorer Panel by pressing Ctrl + Shift + E.
Next, select the two files you want to compare.
Then, right-click and choose “Compare Selected”.
Immediately, a side-by-side diff view will appear.

2️⃣ Using Command Palette (The Pro Way) 🎨

If you prefer using commands, follow these steps:

Press Ctrl + Shift + P to open Command Palette.
Then, type “Compare Active File With…” and select the option.
After that, choose the second file.
Finally, VS Code will show a side-by-side comparison.

3️⃣ Using Side-by-Side View 🔍

Sometimes, manually comparing files works best.

First, open both files in separate tabs.
Then, drag one tab to the right.
Now, scroll through the files to compare them.

Even though this method isn’t perfect, it’s still helpful in many cases.

Best VS Code Extensions for Comparing Files

While built-in tools work well, extensions make everything better. So, here are the best ones:

Partial Diff (For Quick Comparisons)

This extension supports text and file comparison.
It also provides shortcut commands for instant results.

Compare Folders (For Large Projects)

Comparing multiple files inside a directory is effortless.
The extension highlights missing or different files.

GitLens (For Git Users)

This extension lets you compare file versions from Git history.
Additionally, it provides blame annotations for each edit.

Honestly, once you install these, manual file comparisons will feel ancient.

Understanding VS Code Diff View

Since VS Code highlights differences with colors, understanding them is important.

✅ Green – Indicates added lines.
❌ Red – Marks removed lines.
🔵 Blue – Highlights modified lines.

To make things even better, navigation tools help jump between changes.

The arrow buttons let you move quickly.
Switching between inline and split view makes comparisons easier.

Clearly, using these tools speeds up the workflow significantly.

Also Read: Compare Two Files in VSCode Like a Pro (Step-by-Step)

Advanced File Comparison Techniques

For those who need more advanced methods, here are some extra tricks.

🔄 Compare Unsaved Changes

If you’ve made changes but forgot what they were, don’t worry!

Simply right-click on the file tab.
Next, select “Compare with Saved”.
Now, you’ll see all the differences.

🔗 Compare Remote Files

Since many developers work with remote servers, this method is helpful.

First, install the Remote – SSH extension.
Then, open a remote file.
Finally, use “Compare Active File With…” to compare it.

🏆 Compare with Previous Git Commits

If you use Git, comparing files with older versions is easy.

Open the VS Code terminal (Ctrl + ~).
Run git diff HEAD~1 file.txt to compare the file.
Or, for a visual approach, use GitLens.

Keyboard Shortcuts for Faster Comparison

Because speed matters, knowing shortcuts helps a lot.

Ctrl + Shift + P → Opens Command Palette.
Ctrl + K, Ctrl + D → Compares two selected files.
Alt + Left/Right → Moves between differences.

By memorizing these, you’ll save so much time!

Pro Tips & Tricks

Adjust diff colors in settings for better visibility.
Enable "diffEditor.ignoreTrimWhitespace": true to remove whitespace clutter.
Integrate Git tracking to monitor every single change.

Once you start using these tricks, file comparisons will feel effortless!

Visual Studio Code Compare Two Files Like a Pro!

Why Compare Two Files in Visual Studio Code?