Web Performance Tips for 2024

Performance has always mattered, but with Core Web Vitals and user expectations higher than ever, it’s essential to get it right.

Measure First

Before optimizing, you need to understand where the bottlenecks are. Use tools like:

• Lighthouse - Built into Chrome DevTools
• WebPageTest - Real-world testing from multiple locations
• Chrome User Experience Report - Field data from real users

Key Strategies

1. Optimize Images

Use modern formats like WebP and AVIF. Implement responsive images with srcset and lazy loading. Consider using a CDN or image optimization service.

2. Minimize JavaScript

Audit your JavaScript bundles. Remove unused code and consider code-splitting. For content sites, evaluate whether you need a framework at all.

3. Leverage Caching

Set appropriate cache headers for static assets. Use service workers for offline support when it makes sense.

4. Reduce Layout Shift

Reserve space for images and dynamic content to prevent Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS). This improves both metrics and user experience.

Conclusion

Performance optimization is an ongoing process. Start with measurement, make incremental improvements, and keep monitoring.