Merge paths (mergePaths)
Combines paths that share styling into fewer elements, reducing DOM size inside the SVG.
What Merge paths does in SVGO
SVGO applies mergePaths as part of its plugin pipeline. In SVGOMG the toggle is labeled Merge paths (enabled by default). Optimization runs entirely in your browser — files are not uploaded to a server.
Use the SVGOMG optimizer with Show original to compare before and after. If output looks wrong, disable this plugin first, then re-enable related transforms one at a time.
When to enable
Flat icons and illustrations with many same-style paths.
When to disable
When separate paths must stay independent for scripting or partial styling.
Watch out for
Can change stacking order in edge cases with overlapping paths.
Try it in SVGOMG
- Open svgomg.net and load your SVG (file, paste, or demo).
- Find Merge paths in the Features panel (
mergePaths). - Toggle the plugin and compare the preview; download when satisfied.
SVGO Plugin Guide
Browse the SVGO Plugin Guide or read the full SVG optimization walkthrough on the homepage.