1. Direct Column Comparison
Compare columns side by side to see changes instantly.
=IF(A2<>B2, "Changed", "")
2. Key-Based Comparison
Use a unique identifier to match rows and check related columns.
=IF(VLOOKUP(SKU, Sheet2!A:B, 2, FALSE)<>B2, "Updated", "")
3. Conditional Formatting
Highlight differences without extra columns.
Select the range in Sheet1
Format → Conditional Formatting → Custom formula:
=A2<>Sheet2!A2
Apply a color fill
4. Automated Tools (Apps Script or Add-ons)
function highlightDifferences() {
var ss = SpreadsheetApp.getActiveSpreadsheet();
var sheet1 = ss.getSheetByName("Sheet1");
var sheet2 = ss.getSheetByName("Sheet2");
// loop through ranges and apply background color if values differ
}
Want to automate this instantly? Try Symdeslow Compare Tool.