This is a great tool. I work on Unix (without X) from Windows and so often have to ftp files about just to use Meld, which is my usual preferred diff tool.
But I can use icdiff in a PuTTY session with a coloured xterm and get a sensible and clear diff comparison.
I enjoy using console vimdiff in PuTTY, because my configuration allows quick navigation without too much thought.
The accumulated time for starting vim can become annoying when iterating over many files. (I could investigate loading diff pairs into tabs if I was sufficiently bothered.)
Helpful .vimrc settings:-
Firstly, map some keys to navigate to preceding/successive differences...
" Next/ previous diff (analogous to j/k, use the same fingers)
nmap <F6> ]czt
nmap <F7> [czt
And some helper keys...
" Diff update, i.e. repaint the screen when needed
nmap <F5> :diffupdate<CR>
" Get from Buffer 1/ 2/ 3/ 4
nmap <F1> :diffget 1<CR>
nmap <F2> :diffget 2<CR>
nmap <F3> :diffget 3<CR>
nmap <F4> :diffget 4<CR>
Configure all visible windows when starting via vimdiff or diffthis. I prefer no folding (for added context) and then to navigate with the above keys.
" Apply window-local settings to all diff windows
au! FilterWritePost * if &diff | set wrap | set foldcolumn=0 | set nofoldenable | endif
But I can use icdiff in a PuTTY session with a coloured xterm and get a sensible and clear diff comparison.
Thanks! I really appreciate this!