Why Speed Matters
A 1-second delay in page load reduces conversions by 7%. Google also uses Core Web Vitals as a ranking signal. A slow store loses sales and organic rankings simultaneously.
Step 1: Measure Your Baseline
Run your store URL through PageSpeed Insights (pagespeed.web.dev). Note your LCP, CLS, and FID scores. Also run Shopify's built-in speed report under Online Store → Themes → ... → Speed.
Step 2: Compress All Images
Images cause 60–80% of page weight on most Shopify stores. Use TinyIMG or Crush.pics app. Convert to WebP format. Set width limits — product images rarely need to exceed 1200px.
Step 3: Audit Your Installed Apps
Every Shopify app that adds JavaScript to your storefront slows your store. Go to your theme files → layout/theme.liquid and check what scripts load. Uninstall apps you do not actively use.
Step 4: Enable Lazy Loading
Add loading="lazy" to all images below the fold. This delays loading until the user scrolls, significantly improving LCP on mobile.
Step 5: Use a Fast Theme
Dawn, Impulse, and Prestige are the fastest Shopify themes in 2026. If your current theme scores below 50, a theme switch can be the single biggest speed improvement you can make.