What is the best duplicate image finder for Windows 11?

If you want to check if two images are ​​exactly identical​​ (same format, dimensions, and pixel data), you can:

1. Compare file hashes​​ (MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256) ​​
2. Compare pixel-by-pixel​​ (for uncompressed formats like BMP, PNG, or TIFF)

An ​​exact comparison​​ checks whether two files (like images) are ​​completely identical at the binary level​​, meaning every single byte matches. You don't need any duplicate photos finder app with this trick. This is the strictest form of comparison and is useful when you need to confirm that two files are ​​true duplicates​​ (same content, format, metadata, and compression).

How It Works​

Binary-Level Check​​: The comparison examines the raw bytes of the files. If even ​​one bit​​ differs, the files are considered non-identical. No additional duplicate image finder tool required with this method.

Common Techniques​​:

​​File Hashing​​ (MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256): A hash function generates a unique fingerprint (hash) of the file. If two files have the same hash, they are ​​bit-for-bit identical​​.

​​Direct Byte Comparison​​: Read both files byte-by-byte and check for mismatches.

Best for​​:

1. Verifying ​​unmodified copies​​ (e.g., backups, downloaded files).

2. Detecting ​​true duplicates​​ (e.g., duplicate photos with identical metadata).