YAML Diff
Structurally compare two YAML documents and highlight differences.
What is YAML Diff?
The YAML Diff tool compares two YAML documents structurally. It parses both with js-yaml, then diffs the resulting objects — re-ordered keys, whitespace, and indentation differences are not flagged, only real value changes.
How it works
Each YAML document is parsed into a plain object via js-yaml. We run the same structural diff engine used by the JSON Diff tool, then display added/removed/changed entries with their paths.
- Paste both documents. Paste the 'before' and 'after' YAML in separate panes.
- Choose view. Toggle unified or side-by-side diff. Optionally ignore array order.
- Review changes. Each semantic difference is listed with its path and old/new values.
Examples
Config drift
Diff two Kubernetes Deployment manifests to see exactly which fields changed between versions.
Common mistakes
Expecting text diff
This is a structural diff. Whitespace and key reordering won't be flagged — only value changes matter.
Alternatives
JSON Diff
If your data is JSON or you prefer JSON output, use the JSON Diff tool.
Frequently asked questions
Does it handle multi-document YAML?
Currently diffs single-document YAML. Multi-document support is on the roadmap.