Compare Files Online
Upload 2 files to instantly check if they are identical using SHA-256 checksums. Compare file names, sizes, and modification dates side by side.
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Compare Folders Online - Find Differences & Duplicates
Upload 2 folders to find missing, modified, or duplicate files using SHA-256 checksums.
How to Compare Two Folders
Step 1: Select Your Folders
Upload Folders
Select 2 folders to compare (max 100 files, 50MB each)
Folder A
Folder B
Step 2: Choose Comparison Options
Click "Compare Folders" to scan both folders and generate the comparison summary.
Step 3: Review Results
Review the summary counts, differences, and duplicates after the scan completes.
How Folder Comparison Works
Folder comparison at FolderManifest uses SHA-256 checksums to analyze every file in both folders. This cryptographic hash uniquely identifies file contents, ensuring accurate comparison regardless of filenames or modification dates.
The process begins with recursive scanning—our tool traverses all subfolders within each folder you upload, building a complete file inventory. Each file is analyzed to generate its SHA-256 hash, which serves as a digital fingerprint.
After scanning completes, the tool cross-references the two file inventories:
- Only in A: Files found exclusively in Folder A
- Only in B: Files found exclusively in Folder B
- Identical: Files with matching SHA-256 hashes (same content)
- Different: Files with same path but different hashes
Additionally, the tool detects duplicate files within each folder and across both folders, helping you identify wasted storage space and clean up redundant copies.
Why Compare Folders?
Backup Verification
Confirm your backup matches the source before you rely on it.
Migration Validation
Ensure every file moved correctly after a server or cloud migration.
Sync Safety
Preview differences before running a sync to avoid overwrites.
Duplicate Cleanup
Identify duplicate content across folders to reclaim storage.
Folder Comparison Features
Recursive Scanning
Every subfolder is included so you get a full inventory.
SHA-256 Verification
Hashes verify content matches, not just filenames.
Duplicate Detection
Spot duplicates within and across folders automatically.
Folder Comparison vs Folder Sync
Comparison reports differences without changing any files.
Sync modifies files to make folders match, which is riskier when you need an audit trail.
Privacy & Security Guarantee
Your files never leave your browser. Folder comparison is processed server-side with immediate memory cleanup—no storage, no tracking, no retention.
- No permanent storage: Files are held in memory only during comparison and deleted immediately upon completion.
- No account required: Start comparing folders instantly—no signup, no email, no personal information needed.
- HTTPS encryption: All uploads are encrypted in transit using TLS 1.3, protecting your data during transmission.
- No file access by humans: Our automated system processes files without human intervention—no one views your data.
- Immediate deletion: Memory is cleared the moment comparison finishes, leaving no residual traces.
- No third-party sharing: We never sell, rent, or share your data with anyone—you're our only customer.
Common Use Cases
Backup Verification
Compare backup folders against originals to ensure every file is present and identical. Catch corrupted or incomplete backups before disaster strikes.
Data Migration
After migrating data to a new server or cloud provider, compare source and destination folders to confirm successful transfer with zero data loss.
Folder Sync Validation
Before running automated sync tools, manually compare folders to preview what changes will occur. Avoid accidental deletions or overwrites.
Duplicate Cleanup
Identify duplicate files scattered across folders. Free up storage space by removing redundant copies while preserving originals.
Version Control
Compare different versions of project folders to see which files changed between releases. Track modifications without complex version control systems.
Audit Preparation
Document folder contents before and after audits. Generate evidence of file integrity for compliance, legal, or regulatory requirements.
When to Use Online vs Desktop Comparison
Use the online tool for quick folder checks. Choose the desktop app for large folders, automation, and reporting.
What This Tool Can and Can't Do
What it does:
- Compare up to 2 folders (100 files, 50MB each)
- Find files only in Folder A or Folder B
- Detect identical files using SHA-256 checksums
- Find files with the same name but different content
- Detect duplicates within each folder and across both folders
- Works with any file type
- Recursive subfolder scanning
What it doesn't do:
- Can't process folders larger than 50MB
- Doesn't automatically delete or move files
- Won't sync folders or apply changes
- Can't compare more than 2 folders at once
- Doesn't provide historical tracking or change reports
When You Need a Full Desktop Solution
Use FolderManifest desktop to scan unlimited folders, generate detailed audit reports, schedule automatic comparisons, and track changes over time.
Need More Power? Upgrade to FolderManifest Desktop
Upgrade to FolderManifest Desktop
FolderManifest desktop can compare unlimited folders, generate detailed reports, and track changes over time automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I compare two folders online?
Upload both folders and click Compare Folders to generate the summary and detailed differences.
What is the difference between folder comparison and sync?
Comparison reports differences without changing files, while sync modifies folders to match.
Is folder comparison safe?
Files are uploaded for processing, handled in memory, and discarded after comparison.
Can I export results?
The free tool shows results on screen. FolderManifest desktop can export reports.