Tools for Testing Website Performance

Tools for testing website performance

Website performance tools help you understand how fast your site loads, how stable it feels, and how well it responds to user interactions. These tools highlight issues that affect Core Web Vitals and provide recommendations to improve speed, user experience, and search rankings.

This guide introduces the most reliable tools for testing website performance and explains what each one is best used for.

1. Google PageSpeed Insights

PageSpeed Insights analyzes your website using real-world data and lab tests. It provides detailed Core Web Vitals scores and specific recommendations for improving performance.

  • Measures LCP, INP, and CLS
  • Shows mobile and desktop performance
  • Provides actionable suggestions

2. Google Search Console

Search Console shows how your website performs for real users over time. The Core Web Vitals report highlights pages that need improvement.

  • Real user data (field data)
  • Identifies sitewide performance issues
  • Tracks improvements over time

3. WebPageTest

WebPageTest offers advanced performance testing with detailed breakdowns of loading behavior, resource waterfalls, and optimization opportunities.

  • Highly detailed performance metrics
  • Filmstrip and video playback of page load
  • Advanced testing options

4. GTmetrix

GTmetrix combines performance scoring with visual reports that make it easy to understand what’s slowing your site down.

  • Page load breakdowns
  • Waterfall charts
  • Actionable recommendations

5. Chrome DevTools

Built into the Chrome browser, DevTools lets you analyze performance directly. It’s ideal for developers and technical audits.

  • Performance profiling
  • JavaScript execution analysis
  • Layout shift tracking

6. Chrome User Experience Report (CrUX)

CrUX provides real-world performance data from actual Chrome users. It’s useful for understanding how your site performs across different devices and networks.

Which Tool Should You Use?

For most small business owners:

  • PageSpeed Insights — best for quick checks
  • Search Console — best for long-term monitoring
  • GTmetrix — best for visual breakdowns
  • WebPageTest — best for deep technical analysis

Using multiple tools gives you a more complete picture of your website’s performance.

Need Help Understanding Your Performance Reports?

If performance tools feel overwhelming or you’re unsure how to fix the issues they identify, I can help you interpret the results and create a clear plan to improve your website’s speed and Core Web Vitals.

Request Website Help

Continue exploring the Website Performance & Core Web Vitals vertical through our resource hub.

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