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How can I optimize font-display and reduce layout-shift?

Asked on Oct 04, 2025

Answer

Optimizing font-display and reducing layout-shift are key to enhancing user experience and improving Core Web Vitals. The `font-display` property helps control how fonts are rendered while they are loading, and minimizing layout-shift involves ensuring visual stability.

Example Concept: Use the `font-display` property in your CSS to specify how a font should be displayed while it is loading. The `swap` value is commonly used to ensure text is immediately visible using a fallback font until the custom font is fully loaded, reducing the risk of layout shifts. Additionally, preload critical fonts using the `` tag to further decrease loading times and improve layout stability.

Additional Comment:

Use `font-display: swap;` in your @font-face CSS rule to minimize invisible text during font loading.
Preload fonts with `` to prioritize their loading.
Ensure fallback fonts have similar metrics to reduce visual differences and prevent layout shifts.
Audit your site with tools like Lighthouse to identify and address layout shifts affecting CLS (Cumulative Layout Shift).

✅ Answered with Core Web Vitals best practices.

Ask any question about Performance here... and get an instant response.

How can I optimize font-display and reduce layout-shift?

Asked on Oct 04, 2025

Answer

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