| name | progressive-jpeg |
| description | Use when reviewing image assets, markup, and CDN or build transforms related to Use progressive JPEG encoding. Check encoded size, rendered size, loading strategy, and above-the-fold impact together. |
| metadata | {"category":"images","priority":"low","difficulty":"beginner","estimatedTime":"10","source":"frontendchecklist.io","url":"https://frontendchecklist.io/en/rules/images/progressive-jpeg"} |
Use progressive JPEG encoding
Progressive JPEGs display a low-quality preview immediately rather than loading line-by-line—users see something faster, improving perceived performance even if total load time is similar.
Quick Reference
- Progressive JPEGs show blurry preview immediately, then sharpen
- Better perceived performance than baseline JPEGs that load top-to-bottom
- Similar file size to baseline JPEG (sometimes slightly smaller)
- Less relevant with modern formats (WebP, AVIF) but still useful for fallbacks
Check
Check if JPEG images are saved in progressive format for better perceived performance.
Fix
Convert baseline JPEGs to progressive format for improved loading experience.
Explain
Explain how progressive JPEGs show a low-quality preview that improves perceived performance.
Code Review
Review image assets, markup, and delivery configuration related to Use progressive JPEG encoding. Flag exact files or components where format choice, sizing, or loading behavior violates the rule, and describe how to confirm the fix in DevTools.
For full implementation details, code examples, and framework-specific guidance,
see references/rule.md.
Rule page: https://frontendchecklist.io/en/rules/images/progressive-jpeg