Overview

Diffract combines a visual comparison app with a CLI that can support repeatable checks in scripts, Git hooks and CI pipelines. Its free tier permits commercial use on any number of devices, so it can serve as a capable starting point for individuals and teams. Redistribution is not permitted.

The maker says comparisons run entirely on the local machine and files never leave the computer. That is a useful fit for sensitive work, though organizations should assess the tool against their own security requirements.

Key features

Code and text comparisons

Syntax highlighting for more than 30 languages, word-level changes and moved-block detection make code reviews easier to follow than a plain line-by-line diff. Collapsible unchanged regions help keep attention on edits. The CLI offers standard, Myers and patience algorithms, giving script and pipeline users a choice of comparison method.

Folder and binary comparisons

Diffract recursively compares directory trees, identifying added, removed and modified files, with content-level drill-down for changes. The free app also handles hex and binary comparison. This breadth makes it useful for routine file reviews without requiring an upgrade.

Documents, Git and merge

Pro adds PDF, Word and Excel comparison, three-way Git merge conflict resolution, and a Git history browser for comparing commits. PDF changes can be viewed highlighted on the page or as extracted text. The local, remote and common-ancestor merge views provide the context needed to resolve conflicts, while Git difftool support works from the UI or CLI.

OS context-menu integration can make comparisons easier to launch from desktop workflows. Remote URL comparisons are also a Pro feature, so users who need that capability should factor in the upgrade.

Pricing

Plan	Price	What it includes
Free	Free; billed $0 forever	Unlimited file and directory diffs, CLI and desktop app, syntax highlighting for 30+ languages, three diff algorithms, and hex/binary comparison.
Pro	34.00 USD per once; one-time purchase per seat	Three-way merge, PDF, Excel and Word comparison, semantic code comparison, Git integration and history browser, plus all v1.x updates.

Free is the sensible choice for code, folder and binary comparisons, including commercial use. Pro is for users whose work depends on document comparisons, Git history or merge resolution. Its one-time price avoids a recurring subscription, but the license key sets both a seat count and a version ceiling; the purchase covers versions only up to the version specified by the key.

A 7-day trial is available. The terms allow a full refund request within 30 days of purchase, handled by Paddle. The maker is not obligated to provide maintenance or technical support, although it invites questions and bug reports by email.

Platforms

Diffract is a desktop product for Linux, macOS and Windows, with a CLI for command-line workflows.

Who it's for

Diffract is a strong fit for developers who want a local diff tool that handles code, directories and binary files in one free package, especially when they also use scripts or Git hooks. Pro makes more sense for users who regularly compare Office documents or PDFs, inspect commit history or resolve three-way conflicts. It is less compelling for someone who needs those paid workflows but cannot accept per-seat licensing or the stated version ceiling.

Pros and cons

Pros: The free tier combines unlimited file and directory diffs, a CLI, three algorithms and binary comparison, including for commercial use.
Pros: Local comparisons keep files on the computer according to the maker, which suits workflows with sensitive files.
Pros: Pro brings document review, Git history and three-way merge into the same tool.
Cons: Pro is per seat, and its license key sets a version ceiling rather than covering all future versions.
Cons: Maintenance and technical support are not guaranteed by the terms.

Alternatives

Diffchecker is worth considering if you want a freemium option that also runs on the web; its Basic plan has limited access to Pro features and some monthly try counts, while Pro + Desktop is 15.00 USD per month.

Compare Suite is a Windows alternative with a free Light plan for basic file comparison; choose it if that narrower scope suits your needs.

SourceGear DiffMerge is a free alternative for Linux, macOS and Windows.

Beyond Compare is a paid alternative for Linux, macOS and Windows, with a 35.00 USD per once Standard Edition per user and no annual renewal fees.

KDiff3 is a free option for Linux, macOS and Windows.

delta is free, MIT-licensed and available through a package manager or as an executable.

DeltaWalker is a paid cross-platform alternative, with a 39.99 USD per once Standard lifetime license for one platform.

For more options, browse Diff and Merge Tools or File Comparison Software.

Verdict

Choose Diffract if you want a capable, local-first comparison tool across code, folders and binary files without paying, or if Pro’s document, Git and merge features match work you do regularly. Look elsewhere if your team needs guaranteed support or a license without a version ceiling.

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