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. On SVGOMG.net the toggle is labeled Merge paths (enabled by default). Optimization runs entirely in your browser — files are not uploaded to a server.

Use SVGOMG.net 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

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.

Part of: Path and shape optimization

This plugin is covered in the Path and shape optimization topic guide along with related transforms.

SVGO Plugin Guide

Browse the SVGO Plugin Guide or read the full SVG optimization walkthrough.