WinMerge: A Handy Tool for Comparing Folders and Finding Missing Files

As modders, we often find ourselves digging through folders filled with texture mods, trying to identify what's missing from our collection. It's a tedious task that can take up a significant amount of time. However, with the help of WinMerge, comparing folders and finding missing files has never been easier.

If you're using multiple mesh replacers like SMIM and Enhanced Textures Detail, you may have encountered this issue at some point. WinMerge is a free tool that allows you to compare two folders, including subdirectories, to see which files are present in one but not the other. This makes it an essential tool for anyone who likes to seek out a large number of texture mods.

One of the benefits of using WinMerge is its ease of use. The program is designed to be user-friendly, making it simple to compare folders and identify missing files. You can also customize the comparison settings to suit your specific needs.

Another advantage of WinMerge is that it's compatible with various versions of Windows and Microsoft SDKs. If you already have WinDiff installed on your computer, you may find that WinMerge offers similar functionality. However, WinMerge has some additional features that make it a more comprehensive tool for comparing folders.

One example of how WinMerge can be useful is when comparing extracted vanilla texture files with modded textures. This allows you to identify which retextures are missing from your collection and fill in the gaps. With WinMerge, you can quickly compare two folders and see which files are present in one but not the other.

While there may be other programs available that offer similar functionality, I've found WinMerge to be a reliable and effective tool for comparing folders. Its ease of use and customizable settings make it an essential addition to any modder's toolkit. If you're looking for a way to streamline your texture modding process and identify missing files, WinMerge is definitely worth checking out.

Winmerge compare missing