Automatic image optimization for WordPress
Optimus HQ and Optimus HQ PRO are the premium editions of Optimus, a WordPress image optimizer that reduces the file size of uploaded media files. During the upload process, images are sent to the Optimus server, processed, and returned in optimized form. The plugin then saves the reduced image version in the WordPress media library.
Optimization takes place in the background, including the preview images, or thumbnails, generated by WordPress. The media library displays the compression gain for each file as a percentage value. Depending on the image and format, reductions of up to 70 percent are possible, while the source describes the image quality as maintained by the compression technology.
Premium editions
Optimus HQ is described as the premium edition with expanded functionality for personal projects. Optimus HQ PRO is described as the professional solution for customer websites. Both belong to the paid range of Optimus and provide capabilities beyond the free base version, which has limitations such as a maximum file size of 100 KB.
The premium feature list includes an optional HTTPS connection for image transfer and optional conversion to the WebP image format. The source recommends using the WordPress Cache Enabler plugin to integrate converted WebP images. Optimus also creates progressive JPEGs and can remove superfluous information from image files that is not required for displaying the image.
Media library and workflow features
- Reduction of file size during image upload
- Optimization of all preview images associated with a photo
- Background processing without code adjustments
- Optional retention of EXIF and IPTC metadata
- Optional HTTPS image transfer with Optimus HQ
- Optional WebP conversion with Optimus HQ
- Bulk optimization for existing images
- Support for WooCommerce
- WordPress multisite support
If author, EXIF, or copyright information is retained, the compression gain may be lower. This gives site owners a choice between preserving metadata and achieving a greater reduction in file size. The plugin is intended to help reduce the size of media used by blog pages, including thumbnails commonly displayed by WordPress themes.
Image handling and privacy details
After the optimization and transfer process, the Optimus server immediately deletes the temporarily stored files. The source states that no files are stored and that the Optimus servers are located in Germany. The image transfer can use an HTTPS connection with Optimus HQ.
For practical results, the source recommends saving photographs as JPEG files rather than PNG files. PNG is identified as a suitable format for illustrations, while JPEG is described as the better choice for photographs and generally quicker to reduce.
Installation
Install the Optimus edition in WordPress and allow outbound connections so uploaded images can be sent for processing. Once active, the plugin works during media uploads and saves the optimized versions in the media library. Existing images can be handled with the bulk optimization feature. The listed system requirements are PHP 5.6 or later and WordPress 4.6 or later.
