Beyond Compare logo

Beyond Compare

by Scooter Software · Since 1978
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ActiveAvailable globallyCloud
Quick facts
VendorScooter Software
Year launched1978
StatusActive
LocationScooter Software, Inc. 625 N Segoe Rd, Suite 104 Madison, WI 53705 USA
Countries servedGlobal
Languages1
Integrations
Free tier
Free trial
Contact sales

About Beyond Compare

Beyond Compare is a comparison software from Scooter Software that helps users analyze files and folders. It includes features like Show My Licenses, Order History, and Account Info so users can easily manage their accounts and track their usage. Additionally, it supports Change Password and Account Activity for improved account security and transparency. Beyond Compare allows users to compare text files, merge changes, and synchronize directories efficiently. Its interface simplifies the process of identifying differences and managing versions of files. Key capabilities: Show My Licenses Order History Account Info Change Password Account Activity Best for: individual users and teams that need to compare and merge data effectively.

Beyond Compare stands out as a robust utility for anyone who needs to compare, merge, or synchronize files and folders in a reliable, efficient way. From simple folder diff tasks to complex multi-platform version control workflows, the software provides versatile views and a rich set of features for discerning users. Its scripting and automation capabilities allow repetitive tasks to be handled with minimal human intervention, saving significant time for administrators or developers. The perpetual license model means you pay once and retain the version indefinitely, providing strong value. On the other hand, the depth of functionality means there is a learning curve, and some advanced features are gated behind the Pro edition. For users who require full version-control integration or 3-way folder merges, the additional cost may be justified. Overall, it remains a highly respected and widely used tool in the file-comparison niche.

Pros & Cons

What users like
  • +Very robust tool for comparing large sets of files and folders with high performance and flexibility.
  • +Excellent support for many file types (text/code, binary, image, archives) and remote sources.
  • +Strong automation capabilities via scripting and command-line for repeat workflows.
  • +Multi-platform support (Windows, macOS, Linux) enabling cross-environment consistency.
What users flag
  • User interface may appear complex and intimidating for new users unfamiliar with comparison workflows.
  • Lacks a rich third-party add-on ecosystem or marketplace, limiting plug-in customisation.
  • Mobile platform support is minimal (primarily desktop OS), less suited for smartphone/tablet comparisons.
  • Some advanced features (e.g., 3-way merge, secure remote protocols) only available in Pro edition.
  • Pricing may be higher than basic free comparison tools for casual users.

Features

Key features

Folder Compare
compare two folder structures side-by-side (files, sub-folders)
File/Text Compare
compare two text or code files with syntax highlighting and difference highlighting
Image Compare
compare image files visually and highlight pixel-level differences
Merge View (Pro edition)
combine changes from two versions of a file or folder into one output
Synchronize Locations
sync files/folders between local, FTP/SFTP, archives, cloud storage

Additional features

Text Compare
Side-by-side comparison of text files with color-coded highlighting of differences, syntax highlighting, and inline editing with dynamic re-comparison.
Folder Compare
Compares, merges, and synchronizes folders using various criteria (size, timestamp, content hash).
Folder Merge (Pro)
Merges three-way folder differences, combining changes from a common ancestor.
Table Compare
Compares data files like CSV, Excel spreadsheets, and HTML tables, using key columns for alignment.
Hex Compare
Byte-by-byte comparison of binary files, helpful for comparing executables or archived data.
Picture Compare
Compares images, displaying differences with a variety of views (e.g., difference mask).
MP3 Compare
Compares and edits metadata tags within MP3 files.
Registry Compare (Windows)
Compares local or remote Windows Registry hives (Pro Edition).
Version Compare (Pro)
Compares executable file version information.
Scripting
Automates repetitive comparison and synchronization tasks via a flexible command-line scripting language.
Unimportant Differences
Customizable rules to ignore irrelevant changes like whitespace, line endings, or specific text patterns.
Content Filters
Powerful filters to include or exclude files based on filename, size, or modification date.

Pricing

Free trial
Free version
Request a quote
Promo Offer

Monthly plans

Standard Edition

USD 35

Pro Edition

USD 70

Countries & Languages

Global
Countries served
1
Interface languages
1
Billing currencies

Interface languages

English

Billing currencies

🇺🇸USD

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