Replace duplicate elements with links (reusePaths)
Replaces duplicate path definitions with <use> references to a single definition.
What Replace duplicate elements with links does in SVGO
SVGO applies reusePaths as part of its plugin pipeline. In SVGOMG the toggle is labeled Replace duplicate elements with links (off 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
Icon fonts converted to SVG with repeated glyphs, or repeated shapes.
When to disable
When duplicate paths need independent transforms or IDs.
Watch out for
Can complicate editing; test visual output after enabling.
Try it in SVGOMG
- Open svgomg.net and load your SVG (file, paste, or demo).
- Find Replace duplicate elements with links in the Features panel (
reusePaths). - 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.