What is PLS by data save mode
PLS by data save mode breaks down your Perceived Load Speed (PLS) based on whether the user’s browser or device has activated a data-saving mode. This setting is often used on limited mobile networks or by users trying to conserve bandwidth.
PLS, which reflects how fast the page feels to load from the user’s perspective, is especially important for those on constrained connections — as slow perceived loading can push them to bounce quickly.
Healthy PLS by data save mode sample
Should you worry
If your site shows a significant difference in perceived speed between users with data-saving mode enabled and those without, it may indicate that your page isn’t adapting well to lower-bandwidth scenarios.
A healthy distribution should show only minor degradation — users with data save mode should still feel the site loads reasonably fast. If they don’t, your experience may feel bloated or heavy to a performance-sensitive audience.
Unhealthy PLS by data save mode sample
When PLS is noticeably slower for users with data-saving mode turned on, it typically points to large unoptimized media, render-blocking scripts, or a lack of adaptive loading strategies. These users are often on slow or unstable networks — meaning any perceived delay can drive instant drop-off.
This is especially concerning if your audience includes many mobile users, visitors from developing regions, or bandwidth-conscious segments.
Resolving unhealthy PLS by data save mode
Go-to action plan to resolve an unhealthy PLS by data save mode:
Ask Uxi to analyze your PLS by data save mode and suggest improvements.
Use Filters to isolate slow-performing sessions with data save mode enabled and see what else they have in common.
Simulate LCP of the suspected lens to see if fixing it will resolve the PLS by data save mode. If yes, this is where the resolution focus should be.
Use an automated optimization tool like Navigation AI to improve your PLS by data save mode.
Once you’ve improved PLS, set an alert to be the first to know if it starts worsening again.
Try it yourself
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