xlLens manual

xlLens manual

Learn comparison modes, filters, reports, automation, supported formats, and large-workbook behavior.

ValuesCalculatedFormulasStructureNamesCommentsVBAConnectionsFormattingProtection
xlLens
Search changesDifferences onlySave report
BasicSmartTable80 changes
PreviousBudget-2025.xlsx
ABCD
4Revenue475,000,000118.8%OK
5Operating profit118.8%=C5*1.08OK
6New customers531,360,000120.8%OK
7Repeat sales73.8=E7*1.0892.5
CurrentBudget-2026.xlsx
ABCD
4Revenue482,000,000118.8%OK
5Operating profit120.5%=C5*1.10OK
6New customers541,200,000120.8%OK
7Repeat sales73.75=E7*1.1092.50
Sheet 1 19Change detailsVBA 1
RevenueB4475,000,000482,000,000

10 change types in one workspace

Review multiple semantic changes side by side while preserving the visual structure of the desktop product.

xlLens
Search changesDifferences onlySave report
BasicSmartTable80 changes
Matched by key: 4 + Inserted row: 1
PreviousORD-101#101ORD-102#102ORD-103#103ORD-104#104
CurrentORD-101#101ORD-NEWInserted rowORD-102#102ORD-103#103ORD-104#104

Smart alignment

See inserted and removed rows realigned without a cascade of false changes.

xlLens
Search changesDifferences onlySave report
BasicSmartTable80 changes
Key column✓ SKUIDEmail
PreviousA-100Desk$180B-200Chair$80C-300Lamp$45
CurrentC-300Lamp$45B-200Chair$92A-100Desk$180

✓ B-200 · Matched by key · row 2 → 2

Key-based Table mode

Match reordered business records by SKU, ID, email, or another selected key.

Pro interface guide

From advanced comparison to merge and automation

These React-rendered panels follow the real xlLens information structure. Complete each workflow in the order shown.

Three-file compare and merge
BaseBase.xlsxOursOurs.xlsxTheirsTheirs.xlsx
2 conflictsResolve conflicts and save merge
CLI automation
xllens before.xlsx after.xlsx --mode smartBuild commands with Basic, Smart, or Table options
0 · 1 · 2Exit 0 identical · 1 different · 2 error
Version-control integration
Git diff tool: xlLensInspect Git integration status
GitConfigure or remove in one step
Folder batch
Project: Month-end close24 file pairs
24 / 24Save consolidated report
Formula analysis
=SUM(B4:B12)18 dependent cells3 risky changes
SVGSave CSV list and SVG graph
Encrypted workbook
1Enter password2Decrypt and compare locally3Temporary files removed
  1. Open 3-way compare from the Pro menu, then select the base, ours, and theirs workbooks.
  2. Review only conflicting cells, choose a result for each conflict, and save a new merged workbook.
  3. For batch comparison, select two folders, choose filename or folder-location matching, review every pair, resolve duplicates or renamed files manually, and save the setup for reuse.
  4. Formula analysis traces references and downstream impact, then exports a risk list or SVG graph.
  5. Encrypted workbook passwords stay in the session and decrypted temporary files are removed after comparison.
  6. Choose files, folders, and comparison rules on the CLI screen to build a runnable command immediately. The VCS screen inspects the current Git setup and can configure or remove xlLens without editing configuration files by hand.

Getting started

Choose two workbooks, select a comparison mode, and inspect your first result.

Read guide

Smart, Basic, and Table modes

Choose alignment behavior that matches the workbook change you are reviewing.

Read guide

Difference types and filters

Understand value, formula, format, structure, VBA, connection, name, comment, and protection changes.

Read guide

XLSX and CSV audit reports

Export bounded comparison results with hashes, alignment evidence, and product version.

Read guide

CLI and folder batches

Automate deterministic JSON or CSV comparisons with documented exit codes.

Read guide

Large-workbook behavior

Learn how streaming indexes, bounded paging, and spill files keep the UI responsive.

Read guide

Benchmark methodology

Explore xlLens performance across large workbooks with reproducible native-engine results.

Read guide

Supported formats and limits

See what xlLens reads directly and which workbook features are not implemented yet.

Read guide

Frequently asked questions

Does xlLens upload my workbooks?

No. Parsing, comparison, search, paging, and report generation run locally on your computer.

Do I need Microsoft Excel?

No. xlLens reads supported spreadsheet formats directly and does not automate an installed copy of Excel.

What is the difference between the trial and xlLens?

The trial includes every feature for 3 days. Purchasing removes the time limit.

Is the license a subscription?

No. The purchased version does not expire. Updates and email support are included for 12 months; later major versions, new features, and support may be sold separately.

Can xlLens compare password-protected workbooks?

Yes. xlLens accepts the workbook password for the current session, compares the decrypted local copy, and removes temporary files after the workflow.

Does it merge workbooks?

Yes. xlLens provides 3-way comparison and conflict-aware merge into a new workbook. The base and source workbooks are never overwritten.

Which operating systems does xlLens support?

xlLens supports Windows and macOS.

Can xlLens handle large workbooks?

Yes. xlLens loads only the data windows you need and has been verified with workbooks up to 500,000 rows.

How does xlLens stay responsive with large files?

Parsing and comparison run outside the interface, while results are delivered in bounded pages for fast, smooth review.

Is xlLens affiliated with the products on the comparison pages?

No. Product names identify independent comparisons. Official sources, verification dates, and xlLens limitations are shown to keep the comparison checkable.

SUPPORT

Need help?

Report a bug

Found a bug? Include the following details in your email.

  • Device and OS version
  • xlLens app version
  • Description of the issue
  • Screenshot or sample file, if possible