Images are processed during upload

When an image is uploaded to the WordPress media library, Optimus sends it to the Optimus server for processing, then saves the optimized version returned. Processing runs in the background and covers the preview images, or thumbnails, that WordPress creates. The media library shows each file's compression gain as a percentage.

Depending on the image and format, reductions of up to 70% are possible. Optimus describes its compression technology as maintaining image quality. Smaller image files can reduce the amount of image data used on blog pages, where WordPress themes commonly display thumbnails.

Choose an edition and image settings

Optimus HQ is the premium edition described for personal projects. Optimus HQ PRO is the professional solution for customer websites. Both are paid editions with expanded functionality compared with the free base version, which has limitations such as a 100 KB maximum file size.

Optimus creates progressive JPEGs and removes image information that is not needed to display the file. Optimus HQ works with optional HTTPS image transfer and optional conversion to WebP. The product description recommends WordPress Cache Enabler to integrate converted WebP images.

Metadata, formats, and existing images

Metadata retention is optional. Optimus can keep author, EXIF, IPTC, and copyright information in photos; retaining it may lower the compression gain. For photographs, JPEG is the recommended format. PNG is suited to illustrations, and size reduction generally works faster for JPEGs.

Bulk optimization can process existing images. The extension also supports WooCommerce and WordPress multisite, and requires no code adjustments for its upload process.

Transfer and setup

After optimization and transfer, the Optimus server immediately deletes temporarily stored files. The product description says files are not stored and that Optimus servers are located in Germany. Optimus HQ can transfer images over HTTPS when that option is enabled.

Install the extension in WordPress and allow outbound connections so uploaded images can be sent for processing. Once active, Optimus processes uploads and saves the optimized images in the media library; use bulk optimization for existing media. The listed requirements are PHP 5.6 or later and WordPress 4.6 or later.