The best free alternatives to Google PageSpeed Insights are our own free website speed test, GTmetrix, WebPageTest, Lighthouse in Chrome DevTools and Pingdom. Each one measures speed under different conditions, so use them to confirm results or to dig deeper, not to replace Google’s real-user Core Web Vitals data.
Key takeaways
- PageSpeed Insights is the only tool in this list that shows Chrome field data in the same report.
- WebPageTest gives the most detail. Lighthouse is best for testing before launch.
- GTmetrix and Pingdom give their own scores, which will not match Google’s.
- Use real-user data from Search Console to judge Core Web Vitals, whichever tool you pick.
Why look for a PageSpeed Insights alternative?
People look for alternatives when they want another test location, a detailed waterfall, a second opinion on a score, a test of a page that is not public or a tool that tracks results over time. PageSpeed Insights is a good starting point, but it tests one URL at a time from Google’s setup. See how to use Google PageSpeed Insights to get the most from it first.
What are the best free PageSpeed Insights alternatives?
| Tool | Best for | Real-user data |
|---|---|---|
| Techsolution speed test | Quick free check | No |
| GTmetrix | Simple report with Structure score | No |
| WebPageTest | Detailed waterfall and settings | No |
| Lighthouse (DevTools) | Testing non-public pages | No |
| Pingdom | Waterfall by test location | No |
1. Techsolution free website speed test
Our free page speed checker tests any public URL without an account. Use it as a fast second check.
2. GTmetrix
GTmetrix combines a Performance score with its own Structure score. See how to use GTmetrix.
3. WebPageTest
WebPageTest lets you choose location, device and connection and shows a detailed waterfall. See how to use WebPageTest.
4. Chrome DevTools Lighthouse
Lighthouse is built into Chrome and runs on your computer. It is the engine behind PageSpeed Insights. See PageSpeed Insights vs Lighthouse.
5. Pingdom
Pingdom’s speed test gives its own grade and a waterfall. See how to use the Pingdom speed test.
How do you get real-user data without PageSpeed Insights?
Use the Core Web Vitals report in Google Search Console, which shows real-user data for your whole site. See our Core Web Vitals test guide.
Which tool should you trust most?
No single tool. Use PageSpeed Insights and Search Console for Google’s view, and the others for detail and second opinions. Compare results from the same tool over time. For a longer comparison, read GTmetrix vs PageSpeed Insights vs WebPageTest and our list of GTmetrix alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a free alternative to PageSpeed Insights?
Yes. Our free speed test, GTmetrix, WebPageTest, Lighthouse and Pingdom can all test a page for free.
Why do other tools give different scores?
They test from different locations and with different settings, so scores differ. Small differences are normal.
Can another tool replace PageSpeed Insights?
For real-user Core Web Vitals, use PageSpeed Insights or Search Console. Other tools are best for detail.
Which tool is best for beginners?
PageSpeed Insights or our free tool, because the reports are simple.
Which tool is best for developers?
WebPageTest and Lighthouse, because they give the most detail.
Conclusion
PageSpeed Insights is a great starting point, and the alternatives add detail, location and a second opinion. Run a second check with our free website speed test, then follow our guide on how to improve website speed.
