A quick test of one image using various methods of compression to find the optimal image size for blog posts.
I’ve done this test a few times, with different images in the past. There is never one result fits all. Because each individual image has its own characteristics which affect the compression amounts. If you’re really trying to find the best of the best – with just one method. It won’t work. It’s best to find the most efficient method, that fits the majority of images. That way, you reduce your workload.
If you’re looking for the perfect score on a page load test. Then sure, you can try all of these methods to find the optimal one. But personally, I’m not sure I’d bother. Life is too short.
All of these methods are using a 2000px long edge image, all are using the ShortPixel Plugin.
Short Answer: “TLDR:”
Export from LR at Quality 70, 2000px long edge, sharpen for screen @ high. Then upload through ShortPixel Image Optimise plugin, Glossy Setting (no loss of quality), set to also create webP and deliver webP in the front end. This gives images that any speed test will be happy with and are also pin sharp without any loss of quality.
Export from Lightroom – Quality 66
Export Lightroom – Quality 66 + JPGmini
Export Lightroom – Quality 70
Export Lightroom – Quality 70 + JPGmini
Export Lightroom – Quality 80
Export Lightroom – Quality 80 + JPGmini
Photoshop – resize to 2000px – export Save for Web Quality 100%
Photoshop – resize to 2000px – export Save for Web Quality 100% + JPGminis
