Shopify Store Speed Optimization Guide 2025
Comprehensive guide to improving Shopify store performance. Learn Shopify-specific optimization techniques for better Core Web Vitals and conversion rates.
Shopify Strengths
- Built-in CDN with global edge network
- Automatic image optimization and lazy loading
- Managed hosting with consistent performance baseline
- Dawn theme and modern themes optimized for speed
- Liquid templating allows for optimization control
Common Challenges
- Third-party apps inject scripts that slow down stores
- Limited server-side control (no access to hosting configuration)
- Some theme features are not performance-optimized
- Analytics and tracking scripts add significant overhead
- Cart and checkout performance is partially out of your control
Optimization Checklist
Audit and remove unused apps
Each Shopify app adds JavaScript. Remove apps you're not actively using and look for lightweight alternatives.
Use system fonts
Custom fonts add load time. Consider using system font stacks or limiting font weights/styles.
Optimize theme images
Compress hero images and use responsive image loading. Shopify automatically serves WebP when supported.
Implement lazy loading
Ensure below-fold images and sections use lazy loading. Most modern themes support this.
Minimize Liquid template complexity
Reduce nested loops and complex conditionals in Liquid templates that increase server render time.
Use theme sections wisely
Each section adds to DOM complexity. Remove unused sections and consolidate where possible.
Defer third-party scripts
Load marketing pixels and analytics asynchronously or on user interaction.
Consider a performance-focused theme
Dawn (free) or performance-optimized premium themes like Prestige or Impulse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Shopify store slow?+
The most common causes are too many apps (especially those injecting JavaScript), heavy theme features, unoptimized images, and excessive third-party tracking scripts. Audit your apps first.
Can I use a CDN with Shopify?+
Shopify includes a built-in CDN (Shopify's global edge network) for all stores. You cannot use external CDNs for your main store, but you can use them for off-site assets.
What's the fastest Shopify theme?+
Dawn (Shopify's free theme) is specifically optimized for performance. Among paid themes, Prestige, Impulse, and Turbo are known for good performance when configured correctly.
Test Your Shopify Site
See how your Shopify site performs with a free Core Web Vitals test.