In one embodiment, a differential-type magnetic read head includes a differential-type magneto-resistive-effect film formed on a substrate, and a pair of electrodes for applying current in a direction perpendicular to a film plane of the film. The film includes a first and second stacked film, each having a pinned layer, an intermediate layer, and a free layer, with the second stacked film being formed on the first stacked film. A side face in a track width direction of the film is shaped to have an inflection point at an intermediate position in a thickness direction of the film, and the side face is shaped to be approximately vertical to the substrate in an upward direction of the substrate from the inflection point. Also, the side face is shaped to be gradually increased in track width as approaching the substrate in a downward direction of the substrate from the inflection point.