Side by side
Meld vs WinMerge
Both stand on file comparison software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxWindows
Meld brings file, directory, and version-control comparisons together with merge assistance. Its platform limits and incomplete text filtering are worth considering before choosing it.
Visit Meld
Free plan Windows
WinMerge covers file and folder comparisons as well as image and table differences, with patch creation and conflict resolution. It targets Windows, and its published warranty terms are as-is.
Visit WinMergeThe facts
| Meld | WinMerge | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Windows | Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | gnome.pages.gitlab.gnome.org | winmerge.io |
| On file comparison software | #9 of 33 | #13 of 33 |
Meld: what it does well
- Compares files, folders, and version-controlled projects
- Provides three-way merge and conflict assistance
- Supports Git, Mercurial, Bazaar, and Subversion
- Free under GPLv2 or later, except as noted
What to know first
- Text filtering support is incomplete
- Filters cannot change line counts
- Windows lacks automatic updates and portable installs
- macOS is not yet supported
WinMerge: what it does well
- Free and open-source under GPLv2.
- Folder comparison supports three-way comparison.
- Can create three patch formats.
- Includes Windows Explorer integration and 7-Zip browsing.
- Stable releases include source archives and SHA-256 checksums.
What to know first
- Official builds target Windows only.
- 32-bit builds require Windows XP SP3 or newer.
- 64-bit builds require Windows 7 or newer.
- The software is provided without warranty.
Alternatives to Meld Alternatives to WinMerge The whole list