Split Diffs are Here

Zed has introduced split diffs as the new default feature starting from version 0.224, allowing users to view project or branch diffs with the base text on the left and the working copy on the right, both of which scroll in sync. This enhancement addresses a top user request following the Git integration release in March 2025. The split diff view in Zed is designed to be fast, minimal, and intuitive, integrating seamlessly with the editor's multibuffer system, which spans multiple files and allows cursor movement across file boundaries. The system employs a block map to ensure vertical alignment of corresponding lines by inserting non-text spacers, maintaining performance even with large changesets. The development process involved tackling challenges unique to Zed's architecture, resulting in performance optimizations that extend beyond split diffs, including improvements to project search and reduced main thread hangs on macOS. Users can experience the new split diffs in the latest stable release and provide feedback through GitHub or Discord, with the option to revert to unified diffs via settings if desired.