What is FCP (First Contentful Paint)?

Purpose

Define First Contentful Paint (FCP) and explain how it fits into evaluating page load.

What FCP measures

FCP measures when the browser first renders any content from the page, such as text, an image, or a background.

Google reference:

FCP definition https://web.dev/fcp/

Why FCP matters

FCP is an early indicator that something is happening on the page. It is useful context, but it does not mean the main content is ready.

For most dealer pages, LCP and INP are often more aligned with shopper experience.

What can slow down FCP

Slow server response time
Render blocking resources (CSS and JavaScript)
Heavy scripts that block early rendering

How Speed Layer relates to FCP

Speed Layer focuses on the order and timing of work in the browser. By reducing early contention from selected scripts, it can help the browser render sooner.

Results vary by platform and template structure.

What Is LCP (Largest Contentful Paint)?
How Speed Layer Improves Page Load Speed
What is TTFB (Time to First Bite)?