Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about array comparison, JSON diff, and using ArrayDiff.com for your development workflow.
What types of data can I compare?
ArrayDiff supports arrays from any programming language including Python lists, JavaScript arrays, PHP arrays, Ruby arrays, Go slices, Java arrays, and C# arrays. All JSON-formatted data is fully supported, including complex API responses, configuration files, and database query results. The tool handles strings, numbers, booleans, objects, nested arrays, and null values.
Is my data safe and private?
Yes! All comparison processing happens entirely in your browser using client-side JavaScript. No data is sent to our servers, ensuring complete privacy and security. This makes it perfect for comparing sensitive or proprietary data. Your arrays never leave your device, and the tool works even when offline once loaded.
What's the maximum array size I can compare?
ArrayDiff can handle large arrays efficiently with optimized comparison algorithms. Performance depends on your device, but arrays with thousands of elements work smoothly. For very large datasets (100k+ elements), we recommend testing with smaller samples first. The tool uses efficient diffing algorithms to minimize processing time.
Can I compare nested arrays and objects?
Absolutely! ArrayDiff performs deep comparison of nested structures, highlighting differences at any level of nesting. This includes multi-dimensional arrays, complex JSON objects, and mixed data structures commonly found in API responses. The tool recursively compares objects and arrays to find all differences.
How do I use this tool for API response comparison?
Simply paste your API responses (as JSON arrays) into the two input panels and click Compare. The tool will highlight added, removed, and modified elements, making it perfect for testing API changes, validating data transformations, and ensuring backward compatibility. You can compare responses from different API versions, environments, or endpoints.
Is this array comparison tool free to use?
Yes, ArrayDiff.com is completely free to use with no registration required. There are no usage limits, and all features are available without any subscription or payment. The tool is ad-supported to keep it free for developers worldwide.
What programming languages does this online diff tool support?
Our browser diff tool supports arrays from all programming languages including Python lists, JavaScript arrays, PHP arrays, Ruby arrays, Go slices, Java arrays, C# arrays, and any language that outputs JSON-formatted data structures. As long as your data can be represented as JSON, ArrayDiff can compare it.
How does this client-side diff tool ensure privacy?
Unlike server-based diff tools, our online diff tool processes all data locally in your browser. Your arrays and data never leave your device, making it perfect for comparing sensitive API responses, configuration files, and proprietary data structures. No server requests are made for comparison operations.
What are the color codes in the results?
ArrayDiff uses intuitive color coding: Green for added elements (present in Array 2 but not Array 1), Red for removed elements (present in Array 1 but not Array 2), Yellow for modified elements (present in both but with different values), and Gray for unchanged elements.
Does this tool work offline?
Yes! Once the page is loaded, all comparison functionality works offline since processing happens entirely in your browser. You can save the page locally and use it without an internet connection. This is particularly useful for comparing sensitive data that shouldn't be exposed to the internet.
Can I compare arrays with different orders?
Currently, ArrayDiff compares arrays by position (index). If elements are in different orders, they'll be shown as different. For order-independent comparison, you may need to sort your arrays first. We're considering adding an order-independent mode in future updates.
What keyboard shortcuts are available?
ArrayDiff supports several keyboard shortcuts for efficiency: Ctrl+Enter (Cmd+Enter on Mac) to compare arrays, Ctrl+L to load sample data, and standard text editing shortcuts in the input panels. These shortcuts work across all major browsers.