How to compare config files
Use YAML Diff when two YAML documents need a structural comparison. The result lists added, removed, and changed values by path, so a change in layout or notation can be separated from a change in the data. Indentation, quotes, and key order are ignored, and YAML anchors are resolved. The parent Config File Tools category covers validation, merging, conversion, and environment-variable extraction.
Compare YAML files by structure
Open YAML Diff when both inputs are YAML and you need to see which values changed. The comparison follows each value's path. That lets the result separate a value added in one file, a value removed from the other, and a value changed at the same path.
- Added values appear in one YAML file and not the other.
- Removed values appear in the other file but not the first.
- Changed values keep the same path while their content differs.
What YAML Diff leaves unchanged
Indentation, quotes, and key order do not become value changes in the result. A formatting pass can therefore leave the listed values unchanged. YAML anchors are resolved before the comparison, so anchored content is included in the structural result.
The result is organized by path, giving each changed setting a specific place to inspect. This page is for YAML documents. The parent Config File Tools page covers TOML conversion and other config operations, while YAML Diff handles the comparison described here.
When to compare config files
- Compare a revised YAML configuration with the previous file before committing, then review the paths marked added, removed, or changed.
- Compare two environment-specific YAML files to find which settings differ before preparing the next file.
- Compare a reformatted YAML document when you need to separate layout changes from actual value changes.
Choose the right config tool
Choose this category when you need to compare two YAML files and inspect their differences by path. Open Config File Tools for another config job, including file validation, merging, YAML or TOML conversion, or environment-variable extraction.
Frequently asked questions
How do I compare two YAML files by structure?
Open YAML Diff with the two YAML files. The result lists added, removed, and changed values by path, while indentation, quotes, and key order are ignored.
Does YAML Diff compare indentation and key order?
No. YAML Diff ignores indentation, quotes, and key order, so those differences stay out of the value changes it lists.
What does a YAML diff show?
A YAML diff shows added, removed, and changed values by path. It resolves YAML anchors before comparing the documents.
Can I compare TOML files here?
This comparison page is for two YAML files. Open Config File Tools when the task involves TOML conversion or another config operation.