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A 14kb page can load much faster than a 15kb page (2022) (endtimes.dev)

504 points by truxs · 375 days ago · 311 comments on HN

Article summary

The article discusses the importance of keeping website sizes under 14kB to improve loading times due to the TCP slow start algorithm. This algorithm initially sends 10 TCP packets, which corresponds to approximately 14kB of data, and then increases the packet size based on acknowledgement receipts. The article argues that staying under this threshold can save visitors a significant amount of time, especially for those with high latency connections. The author also notes that this rule is not absolute and can be affected by various factors such as server configurations and HTTPS usage.

Main themes

  • TCP slow start algorithm
  • website optimization
  • loading times
  • internet connectivity
  • user experience
  • technology advancements
  • development trade-offs

What commenters say

  • Optimizing website loading times is crucial for a good user experience, especially in areas with slow internet connections.
  • The 14kB rule is not always applicable due to advancements in technology such as TLS 1.3 and QUIC.
  • Some argue that optimizing for fast loading times is not necessary for websites targeting users with fast internet connections.
  • Others believe that even small optimizations can make a significant difference in user experience and should not be overlooked.
  • The decision to prioritize loading times often depends on the specific use case and target audience of the website.
  • Some commenters disagree on the importance of loading times, with some arguing that a delay of a few milliseconds is not significant.
  • The use of certain technologies, such as React, can be a point of contention when it comes to optimization and competency.
  • There is a trade-off between optimization and other factors such as development time and cost.