This article explains the key performance metrics that show how fast your website loads and how to understand what they mean.
Core Performance Metrics
Page Load Time
This is how long it takes for your webpage to fully load. A good load time is under 3 seconds. Load times over 5 seconds mean visitors will often leave before seeing your content.
First Contentful Paint (FCP)
This measures when the first text or image appears on screen. Users see something is happening, even if the page isn't fully loaded yet. Good FCP is under 1.8 seconds.
Largest Contentful Paint (LCP)
This tracks when the main content (usually your biggest image or text block) finishes loading. This is when users feel the page is "ready". Good LCP is under 2.5 seconds.
Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS)
This measures how much your page jumps around while loading. If text moves when images load, or buttons shift position, this creates a poor user experience. Lower numbers are better - aim for under 0.1.
Where to Check Your Performance
Google PageSpeed Insights
Go to pagespeed.web.dev and enter your website address. This free tool shows your performance scores and specific problems to fix.
Your Web60 Dashboard
Log into your Web60 account and check the performance section. This shows your site's speed over time and highlights any issues.
Google Search Console
If you've added your site to Google Search Console, check the Core Web Vitals report. This shows which pages need improvement and tracks your progress.
What Affects Your Website Speed
Image Sizes
Large images are the biggest cause of slow websites. Images should be under 100KB each when possible. If you're having trouble with images, read our guide on adding images and media.
Too Many Plugins
WordPress plugins add functionality but can slow your site. Only keep plugins you actually use. Check our article on plugin conflicts and resolution if you're having issues.
Database Size
Over time, your WordPress database collects unnecessary data. Regular cleanup helps maintain speed.
Understanding Your Scores
Mobile vs Desktop
Google tests both mobile and desktop versions. Mobile scores are usually lower because phones have less processing power. Focus on improving mobile performance first.
Score Ranges
- Green (90-100): Excellent performance
- Orange (50-89): Needs improvement
- Red (0-49): Poor performance requiring immediate attention
Priority Order
Fix red scores first, then work on orange scores. Don't worry about getting perfect 100 scores - anything above 90 is excellent.
Quick Performance Wins
Compress Images
Use tools like TinyPNG before uploading images to your site. This can reduce file sizes by 70% without losing visual quality.
Remove Unused Plugins
Deactivate and delete WordPress plugins you don't use. Each plugin adds code that can slow your site.
Enable Caching
Web60 includes automatic caching, but you can also install caching plugins for additional speed improvements.
If you're still having performance issues or need help understanding your metrics, contact Web60 support for assistance.
FAQ
Q: What's a good page speed score?
A: Aim for scores above 90 on mobile and desktop. Scores between 50-89 need improvement, and anything below 50 requires immediate attention.
Q: Why is my mobile score lower than desktop?
A: Mobile devices have less processing power and often slower internet connections. Google's mobile test simulates real-world mobile conditions, which are more demanding than desktop.
Q: How often should I check my website performance?
A: Check monthly, or after making significant changes to your site like adding new plugins, changing themes, or uploading large amounts of content.
Q: Will slow performance hurt my Google rankings?
A: Yes, Google uses page speed as a ranking factor. Slow sites rank lower in search results and have higher bounce rates.
Q: Can too many images slow down my website?
A: Yes, large or numerous uncompressed images are the main cause of slow websites. Compress images before uploading and use appropriate file formats.
Q: What's the difference between load time and page speed score?
A: Load time is the actual seconds it takes to load, while page speed score is Google's rating based on multiple factors including load time, visual stability, and user experience.
Q: Should I worry about Core Web Vitals?
A: Yes, Core Web Vitals directly affect your Google search rankings and user experience. Focus on improving LCP, FID, and CLS scores first.
Last updated: 1 March 2026