SVGKit
← Browse all toolsSVG Merge Paths

SVG Merge Paths

Optimize

Merge path elements that share matching paint attributes.

Loading...

Page context

Where SVG Merge Paths fits

SVG Merge Paths merges path elements that share matching paint attributes.

Path merge rule

The tool groups paths by fill, stroke, stroke width, linecap, and linejoin, then concatenates matching path data.

Use cases

Use it to reduce simple exported path stacks before minifying or embedding SVG source.

One safe pass, measurable result Input 41.2 KB Safe pass strip metadata drop empty groups reduce precision rendering preserved Output 15.8 KB
SVG Merge Paths applies rendering-safe rules and reports the byte delta so the size-versus-risk trade stays explicit.
A pipeline from a 41.2 KB input through a safe pass to a 15.8 KB output, illustrating how SVG Merge Paths reports the byte delta.

What gets removed

Editor metadata, comments, empty and hidden elements, redundant group nesting, default attribute values, and excess decimal precision make up most SVG waste. These are the first targets because removing them rarely changes rendering.

Safety defaults

Rendering-safe options come first: the viewBox, referenced IDs, gradients, filters, and masks survive, while active content such as scripts is removed. Stronger passes exist but deserve a visual check.

How to verify nothing broke

Compare the original and the result at small and large sizes, and confirm anything CSS selectors or animation targets reference still resolves. The byte delta is reported so the size-versus-risk trade stays explicit.

Expected savings

Designer-exported files commonly shrink 20-60%. Hand-written or previously optimized files shrink far less, which is expected rather than a sign the tool missed something.

How to use

  1. Paste SVG. Paste SVG markup with multiple path elements.
  2. Merge matching paths. The tool combines path data for matching paint groups.
  3. Copy SVG. Copy the merged SVG source.

Frequently asked questions

Does it merge paths with different styles?
No. Paths must share matching paint attributes.
Does it optimize geometry?
No. It concatenates path data and keeps geometry commands unchanged.
Can this affect rendering?
It is conservative but still review important artwork after merging.
Is SVG Merge Paths free?
Yes. SVGKit tools are free to use with no account required.
Does SVG Merge Paths upload my files?
No. The tool runs entirely in your browser, so your files never leave your device.
Will SVG Merge Paths change how my SVG looks?
With safe defaults it should render identically. Aggressive options can subtly affect edges, so compare renders for important artwork.
Are scripts removed?
Yes. Active content is stripped, which is also the safer choice for SVG from unknown sources.
Can I run it twice?
Yes, but the second pass rarely finds more waste. A file that has already been optimized shrinks very little.