# Compare CSV Files

> Find differences between two CSV files, identifying added, removed, or modified rows.

**Category:** Utility
**Keywords:** csv, compare, diff, spreadsheet, changes, delta
**URL:** https://complete.tools/csv-compare

## How it works

Csv Compare operates by first loading both CSV files into memory and converting the data into structured formats such as arrays or dictionaries. It then iterates through each corresponding row and column of the two datasets. The comparison logic involves checking for equality of each data entry. If a discrepancy is found, the tool categorizes it as an addition, deletion, or modification. The results are compiled into a report that highlights these differences, allowing users to easily identify where the data diverges.

## Who should use this

Data analysts reviewing database exports for consistency, software developers comparing configuration files for version control, and quality assurance testers verifying data integrity in test cases are specific examples of who can benefit from Csv Compare. Additionally, financial auditors analyzing transaction records across different periods may find this tool useful for identifying discrepancies.

## Worked examples

Example 1: A financial analyst compares two CSV files containing monthly sales data. File A has: 'Product, Sales
A, 100
B, 150
C, 200' and File B has: 'Product, Sales
A, 100
B, 160
D, 250'. The tool identifies that 'B' has a different sales figure (150 vs. 160) and 'C' is missing in File B while 'D' is an addition. 

Example 2: A software developer compares configuration settings in two environments. File A has: 'Setting, Value
Timeout, 30
MaxConnections, 10' and File B has: 'Setting, Value
Timeout, 30
MaxConnections, 15'. The comparison shows that 'MaxConnections' has changed from 10 to 15, indicating a modification.

## Limitations

Csv Compare is limited by the size of the CSV files it can process, as very large datasets may lead to performance issues or memory overload. The tool assumes that both files have the same structure in terms of columns; if they differ, the results may be inaccurate. Additionally, it does not account for variations in data types (e.g., string vs. integer) and may misinterpret numerical differences if they are formatted differently. Finally, it does not provide contextual information about the data, such as timestamps or metadata.

## FAQs

**Q:** How does Csv Compare handle discrepancies in data types across two CSV files?


**A:** Csv Compare assumes that the data types in both files are consistent and does not perform type conversion. This may lead to inaccuracies if one file has numerical values formatted as strings.


**Q:** Can Csv Compare identify differences in row order?


**A:** Csv Compare focuses on content differences rather than row order. If the same data appears in different rows, it will be flagged as a discrepancy.


**Q:** What happens if one file has additional columns?


**A:** If one CSV file contains additional columns, Csv Compare will ignore these columns during its comparisons, focusing solely on matching rows and columns.


**Q:** Is there a limit to the number of rows Csv Compare can handle?


**A:** Csv Compare's performance may degrade with very large files, typically exceeding tens of thousands of rows, depending on system resources.

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*Generated from [complete.tools/csv-compare](https://complete.tools/csv-compare)*