Using max_wait_ms

Limit how long the API waits before capturing your image

How it works

The max_wait_ms parameter sets a maximum time limit for waiting before the screenshot is taken. This is useful when pages load extra irrelevant content that you don’t need to wait for.

Value range

max_wait_ms vs ms_delay

These two parameters serve different purposes:

When to use each

• Use ms_delay when you need to wait for JavaScript to execute or animations to complete
• Use max_wait_ms when pages load too much content and you want to capture sooner

Example usage

Speed up slow pages

If a page loads unnecessary content that slows down your screenshot:

{
  "url": "https://heavy-website.com",
  "max_wait_ms": 2000
}

Combined with ms_delay

You can use both parameters together. The API will wait for ms_delay but not exceed max_wait_ms:

{
  "url": "https://example.com",
  "ms_delay": 1000,
  "max_wait_ms": 3000
}

Fast screenshots

For simple pages where you want quick renders:

{
  "html": "<div>Simple content</div>",
  "max_wait_ms": 500
}

Common use cases

News websites

Many news sites load ads and tracking scripts that delay screenshots:

{
  "url": "https://news-site.com/article",
  "max_wait_ms": 3000,
  "block_consent_banners": true
}

E-commerce pages

Product pages often have heavy JavaScript. Limit wait time to get faster screenshots:

{
  "url": "https://shop.example.com/product/123",
  "max_wait_ms": 4000,
  "selector": ".product-image"
}

Batch processing

When generating many screenshots, use max_wait_ms to prevent slow pages from blocking your queue:

{
  "url": "https://example.com",
  "max_wait_ms": 5000
}

Best practices

1. Start with the default - Only use max_wait_ms if screenshots are taking too long
2. Test your value - Too short a time may result in incomplete screenshots
3. Combine with selector - Use selector to capture specific elements that load quickly
4. Consider render_when_ready - For precise control, use render_when_ready instead

Need help?

Talk to a human. Please email us support@htmlcsstoimage.com with any questions and we’ll gladly help you get started.