How to Compare Two Files in Alteryx

Quick summary

The Alteryx Join tool lets you compare two files side by side by connecting Input Data tools to the L and R anchors and configuring match settings in the workflow designer. Once connected, you can instantly preview merged or unmatched records using the J, L, and R output anchors.

Steps

1. In the Alteryx workflow designer, locate Join in the left-side panel and drag it onto the canvas.
2. Go to the first Input Data tool, hold its Output anchor, and connect it to the L input anchor of the Join tool.
3. Go to the second Input Data tool, hold its Output anchor, and connect it to the R input anchor of the Join tool.
4. Click the Join tool on the canvas to open its configuration panel.
5. In the right-hand panel, configure the Join Options — such as Join by Specific Columns or by Record Position — based on how you want to compare your files.
6. Tap the J output anchor of the Join tool to preview and compare the combined data from both files.
7. Click the L or R output anchor to review data exclusively from a specific input file.