JavaScript Performance Optimization Guide

Optimize JavaScript performance with code splitting, tree shaking, bundle analysis, and modern loading strategies like defer and async.

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Why JavaScript Performance Matters

JavaScript is often the biggest contributor to slow page load times. It blocks the main thread, delays interactivity, and can significantly impact Core Web Vitals like INP and TBT.

JavaScript Optimization Techniques

1

Analyze Your Bundle

Use bundle analyzers like webpack-bundle-analyzer to identify large dependencies and unused code.

2

Implement Code Splitting

Split your bundle into smaller chunks that load on demand using dynamic imports.

3

Enable Tree Shaking

Ensure your build tool removes unused exports. Use ES modules for better tree shaking.

4

Use defer and async

Add defer to non-critical scripts. Use async for independent scripts like analytics.

5

Minimize Third-Party Scripts

Audit third-party scripts. Remove unused ones and self-host critical scripts when possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Both download scripts without blocking HTML parsing. Async executes immediately when ready. Defer executes in order after HTML parsing completes.
Aim to keep total JavaScript under 300-400KB compressed. For mobile users, every 100KB of JavaScript adds roughly 1 second to Time to Interactive.

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