Frequently asked questions
Detailed answers about the Salesforce Chrome extension, org comparison and included tools.
What is Salesforce Org Compare?
Salesforce Org Compare is a free Chrome extension built for teams managing multiple Salesforce orgs (sandbox, UAT, production, etc.). It combines metadata comparison, Apex development, permission analysis, operational monitoring and manifest generation in one browser panel.
Its five work modes cover the full release cycle: compare configuration and code across environments, run tests and SOQL queries, audit permission sets and Custom Metadata, review org limits and audit trail, and prepare package.xml before deploy. All using your authenticated Chrome session — no Salesforce CLI or API keys required.
It targets admins, Apex/Lightning developers and release managers who need visual org diffs before promoting changes. Twenty-five-plus integrated tools — including REST Explorer, Event Monitor, object describe, data editor, Bulk API monitor, and the Apex log analyzer — reduce context switching between Developer Console, Workbench and local scripts.
Salesforce Org Compare is third-party software not sponsored by Salesforce, Inc. It is available on Chrome Web Store and documented at salesforceorgcompare.com, with dedicated pages for the Chrome extension, metadata comparator, features and FAQ.
What is the best Chrome extension for Salesforce?
There is no single «best» extension for everyone: it depends on whether you need record inspection, field editing, metadata comparison or Apex debugging. Salesforce Org Compare stands out when you work across multiple orgs and want comparison, development and auditing in one Chrome extension.
It includes twenty-five-plus tools: visual metadata diff, Apex test center, SOQL explorer, Apex log analyzer with 8 tabs, REST Explorer, Event Monitor, permission analyzer, Custom Metadata and Settings comparators, object describe, data editor, limits dashboard, Bulk API monitor, Setup Audit Trail and package.xml generator. All without Salesforce CLI, using your browser session. It is free and updated regularly on Chrome Web Store.
Is there a Chrome extension to compare Salesforce orgs?
Yes. Salesforce Org Compare is a Chrome extension built to compare configuration and code across Salesforce orgs. You can contrast sandbox, UAT, production or any environment where you are logged in.
The comparator covers dozens of metadata types (Apex, LWC, Aura, flows, profiles, permission sets, etc.) and shows a professional on-screen diff. You can also compare records, effective permissions and Custom Metadata values — tasks that often require XML exports or spreadsheets with manual workflows.
What Chrome extensions do Salesforce developers use?
Developers often combine productivity extensions (tab management, screenshots) with Salesforce-specific tools: metadata inspection, SOQL execution, permission review or environment comparison.
Salesforce Org Compare bundles many of those needs in one panel: Apex tests and coverage, quick editor, debug logs, metadata comparison, dependency explorer and manifest generation. That reduces context switching between Developer Console, Workbench and local scripts when you only need to validate org differences.
How to compare Salesforce metadata without CLI?
With Salesforce Org Compare you do not need `sf project retrieve` or external folder diff tools. Typical steps: (1) install the extension; (2) log into sandbox and production in Chrome; (3) add both orgs in the popup with clear aliases; (4) open Compare mode and pick source and target.
You see the diff in real time. For specific types use «Compare metadata type» to list all members of a Metadata API type before deploy. If you already use CLI in your pipeline, the extension complements it with visual pre-release validation.
Does it work with Permission Sets and Custom Metadata?
Yes. The permission analyzer answers live queries about who can view or edit an object, field or custom permission, with comparison mode across two orgs. Useful for security audits before go-live.
Custom Metadata Types and Custom Settings have record-level comparators with a «differences only» filter. You can spot distinct flags, URLs or configuration between sandbox and production without export reports. Profiles, permission set groups and picklist dependencies are supported too.
Does the extension need an API key or Salesforce CLI?
No. The extension operates in the context of your web session in Salesforce, like when you browse Setup or Developer Console. It does not store passwords or require a Connected App for standard features.
Salesforce CLI remains useful for CI/CD and automated deploys, but for ad hoc comparisons, quick Apex tests or permission reviews across orgs, the Chrome extension avoids local project setup. It does not override your organization's security policies: it acts with the connected user's permissions.
Is the Chrome extension free?
Yes. Salesforce Org Compare is distributed free on Chrome Web Store. There is no mandatory subscription for core comparison, development and monitoring tools.
The author accepts voluntary donations (e.g. Buy Me a Coffee) to support maintenance, but the extension is not paywalled. Always check the current Chrome Web Store listing for browser requirements and requested permissions.
Does it work in Chromium browsers besides Chrome?
The extension is published for Google Chrome and often works on Chromium-based browsers that allow Chrome Web Store extensions (e.g. some Edge or Brave builds, depending on browser policy).
We recommend an up-to-date Google Chrome for best compatibility with extension APIs and Salesforce Lightning. If your company restricts extensions, IT approval may be required.
Can I compare Apex and LWC code?
Yes. The metadata comparator includes Apex classes and triggers, LWC and Aura components, Visualforce pages and many other types. The diff highlights changed lines across orgs, similar to a code comparator.
Development mode also offers a Monaco quick editor, test runs, anonymous Apex and Lightning Quick Editor for LWC/Aura bundles, so you can fix in sandbox and validate before promotion. Apex coverage comparison across orgs helps catch misalignment before deploy.
How do I generate package.xml visually?
In Manifests mode, open the package.xml generator: select types and members from the reference org describe. XML is generated in real time as you check or uncheck components.
You can download the file, run a ZIP retrieve against the org or compare the manifest with another org to see what is missing or extra before deploy. Combine with «Compare metadata type» for full-type incremental reviews.
Is it affiliated with Salesforce, Inc.?
No. Salesforce Org Compare is an independent third-party tool. It is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by Salesforce, Inc. Salesforce and related names are trademarks of their respective owners.
The extension accesses your orgs only through the browser session you start, under your responsibility and company policies. Read the product privacy policy for analytics and telemetry details.
Where do I install the extension?
From Chrome Web Store: search «Salesforce Org Compare» or use the «Install on Chrome Web Store» button on this site (salesforceorgcompare.com). After install, pin the icon, log into Salesforce and add your first org from the popup.
Extended documentation, FAQ and privacy policy live on this site. For issues or suggestions, contact the author via the extension listing or LinkedIn.