Optimizing Cumulative Layout Shift with Fontaine
Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS) is a crucial metric that measures the stability of content on a web page. It’s an essential aspect of user experience, as it can cause frustration and irritation when elements shift around during page loading. In this article, we’ll explore how to reduce CLS using Fontaine, a tool that helps optimize font loading.
What is Cumulative Layout Shift?
CLS is a measure of the layout shifts that occur on a web page. It’s calculated by summing up the individual layout shifts that happen during page loading. The higher the CLS score, the more significant the layout shifts are. A good CLS score is essential for providing a seamless user experience.
The Problem with Custom Fonts
Custom fonts can be a significant contributor to CLS. When a custom font is loaded, it can cause the text to shift around, leading to a higher CLS score. This is particularly noticeable on mobile devices, where network speeds are slower, and font loading takes longer.
Introducing Fontaine
Fontaine is a tool that helps optimize font loading, reducing CLS and improving user experience. It works by creating a fallback font that matches the metrics of the custom font, ensuring that the text remains stable during page loading.
Using Fontaine with Docusaurus
To use Fontaine with Docusaurus, you need to add it as a dependency to your project. Then, you can create a plugin that utilizes Fontaine to optimize font loading. In some cases, you may need to update your CSS variables to accommodate Fontaine’s override font family.
Real-World Results
By using Fontaine, you can significantly reduce CLS and improve user experience. In one example, a website’s CLS score was reduced from 0.019 to 0, resulting in a much smoother and more stable user experience.
Conclusion
Fontaine is a powerful tool that can help you optimize font loading and reduce CLS. By using Fontaine, you can improve user experience and provide a more seamless and stable interface for your users. Whether you’re using Docusaurus or another framework, Fontaine is definitely worth considering.