Srcset

Srcset is the term that is an HTML attribute. This attribute enables responsive images by specifying its multiple image versions for different screen sizes and resolutions. The browser automatically selects the suitable image based on the characteristics of the device and optimizes performance and user experience.

How Does Srcset Work?
The srcset attribute provides a list of image options, and the sizes attribute defines when each should be used.

Example

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<img srcset=”image-480w.jpg 480w, image-800w.jpg 800w”

sizes=”(max-width: 600px) 480px, 800px”

src=”image-800w.jpg”

alt=”Example Image”>

If the viewport is 600px or smaller, the browser loads the 480px-wide image.
If the viewport is larger than 600px, it loads the 800px-wide image.

Alternatively, you can define images based on pixel density (1x, 2x, etc.), which helps high-resolution (e.g., Retina) screens load sharper images:

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<img srcset=”image-1x.jpg 1x, image-2x.jpg 2x”

src=”image-1x.jpg”

alt=”High-Resolution Image”>

Why is Srcset Important for SEO?

Enhancing Page Speed – Loads the optimal image size, reducing file size and improving load times.
Boosting Mobile Performance – Ensures mobile users aren’t downloading unnecessarily large images.
Improving User Experience – Faster load times reduce bounce rates and enhance engagement.

Since page speed is a direct Google ranking factor, optimizing images with srcset helps improve both user experience and search rankings.

Best Practices for Responsive Images

Use PageSpeed Insights – Analyze and optimize image loading efficiency based on Google’s recommendations.
Consider the <picture> Element – For more control over image selection, use <picture> to serve entirely different images based on screen size:

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</picture>