Monday, January 12, 2015

Compare & Synchronize Folders/Files - Free and pay programs

Revisiting the best software to install that will compare folders and files and allow for easy merging and syncing. Currently investigating Open Source options so i can install on all PC's and laptops as needed and keep things clean and organized.

I am most likely sticking with:
FolderMatch:
I have loved and used FolderMatch with much success, but it is pay and it periodically wants or requires you to pay for an upgrade. Doesn't cost too much to purchase($25) and upgrade($12). This program seems to be the most visually friendly and easy to understand so far. Been in this biz forever.
http://www.foldermatch.com/

they have a page listing competitor software which is a good list to investigate:
http://www.foldermatch.com/fmcompetitors.htm

Beyond Compare: Free trial, but costs about $30. Very nice and powerful. PRO version also.
http://www.scootersoftware.com/features.php?zz=gallery

WinMerge:
Open Source. "Differencing and merging tool for Windows. WinMerge can compare both folders and files, presenting differences in a visual text format that is easy to understand and handle." check site for last stable version. (winmerge 2.14.0)
http://lifehacker.com/290657/compare-and-merge-files-and-folders-with-winmerge/all

FreeFileSync:Open Source. Cross platform
Some comments mention being cautious of bundled apps on install. Not sure if true.
http://lifehacker.com/5335995/freefilesync-offers-robust-file-syncing-with-easy-to-use-interface

Others mentioned in articles and forums:
- FileSync
- TreeComp
- WinDiff
- kdiff3 - http://kdiff3.sourceforge.net/
- PureSync
- windows synctoy

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