How Can I Improve LCP on Shopify?
We can improve Largest Contentful Paint (LCP) on Shopify by optimizing above-the-fold content, reducing render-blocking resources, removing unnecessary third-party apps, and simplifying theme code to ensure the main visual element loads quickly.
Page speed is crucial for the success of any business on Shopify. Any website usually deals first with a hero image or main product image. If it does not load quickly, it increases the bounce rate because the first visual impression decides whether visitors lean forward with interest or quietly exit.
An LCP of less than 2.5 seconds is considered good for passing Core Web Vitals. The following sections explain in detail how this can be achieved.
1. Optimize Hero Images
In most Shopify stores, the LCP element is the homepage banner image. Generally, high-resolution images uploaded without compression slow down page loading. Shopify stores often use 1280 × 720 pixels for hero images; however, the optimal dimensions vary based on the image container of your Shopify theme. Incorrect image dimensions and using PNG when optimized JPEG or WebP is more suitable are also the main reasons of slow loading.
Shopify automatically serves optimized images, but you should upload images close to display size. Additionally, using a preload tag helps improve loading speed as the browser prioritizes the LCP image.
2. Reduce Server Response Time
Before the largest element renders, the browser waits for the server. Shopify hosting is generally optimized, but delays can occur due to excessive Liquid logic, complex loops, and multiple dynamic sections. Simplifying liquid code and minimizing dynamic sections above the fold keep the hero area lean.
3. Eliminate Render-Blocking Resources
CSS and JavaScript files can delay LCP because browsers must download and parse them before painting content. Not all JavaScript is needed immediately. Deferring non-critical JavaScript and prioritizing critical CSS help content appear faster and improves key performance metrics like LCP. Similarly, unused apps and leftover codes of uninstalled apps increase page weight. They should be removed for better performance.
4. Optimize Fonts
Web fonts can delay text-based LCP elements.
Expert Strategy:
- Use WOFF2 format
- Limit font weights (avoid 8 variations)
5. Reduce Third-Party Scripts
Tracking pixels, chat widgets, and analytics tools provide business capabilities and enhance user experience, but each script competes with LCP image. To improve performance, load third-party scripts after user interaction.
You can further consider the following points for improvement:
- Improve Shopify Theme Efficiency
- Use a Content Delivery Network (CDN) Effectively
- Monitor Using Professional Tools
- Advanced: Critical CSS Implementation
Need expert help improving your Shopify store’s LCP and overall speed? Connect with DevSplit to optimize performance and deliver a faster shopping experience.