Great thread topic! For image optimization, I've found WebP to be a solid choice for broad browser support, and AVIF for newer browsers if you can handle the fallback. Tools like ImageOptim or server-side libraries are invaluable. For third-party scripts, consider loading them asynchronously (async or defer attributes) and deferring non-critical ones until after the initial page load.
Discussion: Best Practices for Frontend Performance
Hey everyone!
I'm looking to optimize the performance of a new web application. I've been exploring various techniques like code splitting, lazy loading, image optimization, and using CDNs. However, I'm curious about what the community considers the most impactful strategies and any pitfalls to avoid.
Specifically, I'm wondering about:
- The best approach for image optimization (e.g., WebP vs. AVIF, server-side vs. client-side compression).
- Strategies for managing third-party scripts and their impact on load times.
- Any advanced caching techniques that have proven effective.
Looking forward to hearing your insights!
Posts
Echoing CodeNinja on async/defer. A big one I often see missed is excessive DOM manipulation. Batch your updates where possible, or use techniques like virtual DOM libraries (like React or Vue) which handle this efficiently. Also, profiling your application with tools like Chrome DevTools' Performance tab is crucial to identify specific bottlenecks.
For caching, HTTP caching headers (Cache-Control, ETag) are your first line of defense. Service workers open up a whole new level for offline capabilities and aggressive caching of assets. If you're using a framework, look into its built-in optimizations or plugins for PWA features.