Technical
TechnicalLow

Image Lazy Loading

Checks that below-the-fold images use loading="lazy" while above-the-fold do not.

What this check measures

We count images with and without `loading="lazy"`. Above-the-fold (LCP candidates) must NOT be lazy — lazy LCP images become slower. Below-the-fold SHOULD be lazy.

Why it matters

Correct lazy loading cuts initial page weight 50-80% on image-heavy sites. Wrong lazy (on LCP image) makes LCP hit the 2.5s threshold much harder.

search

How our audit detects it

Count <img> tags with and without loading="lazy". Flag hero images with lazy and below-the-fold images without.

Typical findings

  • error_outlineHero image has loading="lazy" — LCP suffers.
  • error_outlineAll 40 product thumbnails load eagerly — first paint delayed.

How to fix

Lazy-load everything below the fold. Add `loading="eager"` (or nothing) on the LCP element. Also add `fetchpriority="high"` on the LCP image for a boost.

Frequently asked questions

Is native lazy well-supported?expand_more
Yes — 97%+ browsers support loading="lazy". No polyfill needed in 2026.

Want this checked on your site?

Pantra runs the full audit (SEO, Security, GEO, Performance, Schema, Technical, Images) in 10 seconds and generates stack-specific fix prompts.

Scan my site

Related checks