CSV compare
Two related workflows exist. Do not mix them up: one answers “which keys?”, the other answers “which cells on this key?”
Table compare (this product)
Open compare CSV. Both sides need a header row. You pick a key column (often guessed as id, sku, or email). Rows join on that key even if the files were sorted differently. Shared columns are then compared cell by cell.
- Added — key only in B (newer export).
- Removed — key only in A (older export).
- Changed — same key, at least one other column differs.
- Unchanged — counted in stats, not listed in the difference feed.
Column extract (list compare)
On the list tool or the CSV ID list use case, choose Col N, optional Header, then Apply. You get a one-column list and the usual A only / B only / Intersection tabs. That is the right job when price and stock do not matter.
Headers, duplicates, size
- Column names should match across files. Extra columns on one side show up as empty vs filled (a change).
- Duplicate keys: only the first row is used; a warning lists the rest.
- Empty keys are skipped and counted separately.
- Very large pastes truncate so the tab stays usable—this is not a million-row warehouse tool.
- Native
.xlsxworkbooks are not parsed; export CSV or copy TSV.
FAQ
Should I extract a CSV column or use table compare?
Extract when you only need missing vs new IDs. Table compare when the same ID may have edited fields.
How are rows matched?
By the key column. Order does not matter. First row wins if a key repeats.