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Async JavaScript

By David Clough

Performance & Optimization / Caching Solutions

Async JavaScript Review - In-Depth Analysis

Async Javascript helps improve your site's performance by adding 'async' or 'defer' attributes to scripts. This reduces render-blocking issues, enhancing user experience and SEO.

Performance Overview

WPS Score

6.83/10

User Rating

4.7/5 (based on 102+ reviews)

Active Installations

70,000+

Update Frequency

Average It is calculated using the weighted average of same category plugins.

Security Score

5 / 10 (Medium Risk) It is calculated using the weighted average of all versions.

What It Does

Eliminate render-blocking Javascript in above-the-fold content with Async Javascript.

Render-blocking Javascript prevents above-the-fold content on your page from being rendered until the javascript has finished loading. This can impact on your page speed and ultimately your ranking within search engines. It can also impact your user's experience.

Async JavaScript gives you full control of which scripts to add an 'async' or 'defer' attribute to or to exclude to help increase the performance of your WordPress website.

Comparing to Alternatives

Async JavaScript is a focused plugin designed to improve site speed by deferring or asynchronously loading JavaScript files. Compared to other optimization plugins, it offers a streamlined approach without additional features.

Top alternatives

Strengths

Simple and easy to configure with clear options for async and defer loading.
Improves Google Page Speed and GTmetrix scores effectively.
Lightweight with no unnecessary features, reducing complexity.
Responsive and helpful developer support.

Weaknesses

Can cause conflicts with some plugins like WpForo, breaking certain functionalities.
Lacks broader optimization features found in competitors, such as CSS optimization or caching.
No pro version means limited advanced features and support options.

User Sentiment Analysis

Users generally praise Async JavaScript for its effectiveness and simplicity, though some report compatibility issues.

Positive highlights

'Improved Google Page Speed significantly' - tomraab90
'Easy to use with helpful videos' - tomraab90
'Does exactly what it promises' - W★
'Great implementation and support' - lockbench
'Fast and helpful support' - gaiusjaugustus

Common complaints

Breaks WpForo answer editor causing functionality issues.
Limited scope compared to all-in-one optimization plugins.

Weaknesses

Compatibility issues with certain plugins can limit usability.
No advanced features or premium support options available.

Who Should Use This?

Best for

Website owners seeking a straightforward, effective solution to asynchronously load JavaScript and improve page speed without extra bloat.

Not ideal for

Users needing comprehensive optimization including CSS minification, caching, or those running complex sites with plugins that may conflict with Async JavaScript.

Pricing & Value

Free version includes

The free version provides essential async and defer JavaScript loading options that improve site performance without any cost.

Final Verdict

Async JavaScript excels as a lightweight, focused plugin that delivers on its promise to improve site speed by managing JavaScript loading effectively. Its simplicity and strong support make it a reliable choice for users prioritizing performance without complexity.

However, its limited feature set and occasional compatibility issues mean it may not suit all users, especially those needing broader optimization or running plugins that conflict with its functionality. Overall, it is a solid tool for targeted JavaScript optimization.