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Analyzing Page Load Times in GA4: Metrics and Visualization
Hey there! So, I’ve been using GA4 to keep tabs on my Vue app, mainly trying to catch the page load speed. I’ve been using gtag.js for grabbing the numbers and ferrying them over to GA4. Now, I’m scratching my head wondering if there are better ways out there to track load speeds besides my current tactic?
Also, while I’m picking your brain, do you know if GA4 lets you pull average values for load times when you’re exploring the data? Or is it a case of trawling through every single page’s stats by itself?
Just for your info, I’ve been measuring the render time on every page like so:
`javascript
event((‘page_load’), {
page_title: this.$options.name,
time_to_render: timeToRender,
non_interaction: true,
value: timeToRender
})
`Perfectly lined up in Google Analytics, now I just want to see it all, ideally with some neat averages tied in. Any bright ideas?
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2 Replies
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The method you are using is actually one of the effective ways to track load speeds, particularly in a system with Google Analytics setup. However, you could look into the Performance API to measure other aspects of your page or web app’s loading times. The Performance API offers a more detailed breakdown of the loading process, which might be beneficial for your needs.
As for pulling average values for load times using GA4, your options are a bit limited. GA4 currently seems to be lacking built-in reports for checking average load times like the previous versions of Google Analytics had. You generally have to sift through individual event parameters to find that information. However, GA4 offers advanced analysis techniques such as the Explorations feature which can manipulate your data in many ways. You can create segments, complex filters and get detailed insights which could help in extracting the required data.
Do note that all these options require a deep understanding of not just the tool but also the data you are analyzing. You have to consider the “real-world” implications and ensure that you filter and segment your data correctly for most accurate insights. You may want to either invest time in learning advanced Google Analytics or consider getting help from a professional for this.
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Firstly, using gtag.js that you’ve implemented is a good way to track load times as Google recommends it and most developers find it efficient and easy to use. You don’t necessarily need to look for alternative methods, unless you’re experiencing problems or limitations.
Secondly, GA4 does not provide an out-of-the-box feature to get averaged load times. However, GA4 is designed to allow for custom data analysis and reporting. You can build this average yourself by creating a calculated field in a GA4 report to compute an average of your page load time metrics. This allows you to view the averaged data in comparison to other metrics you’re interested in, without having to extract and calculate the average by hand.
Remember that while the above is possible, the exact process and steps may vary and might require some knowledge in manipulating GA4’s interface to create reports, calculated fields and other explorations. If you’re finding it complicated, you might find it helpful to look at some tutorials or ask community help for more step-by-step guidance.
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