As someone have pointed out in the thread itself: this is not in any way React's fault. If you want, you can add (p)react for a few kb to your page, serve a max 20-25k js code with it and still do not match the served image's size.

However, when websites decide to instead track the everliving hell out of their users, this is what happens. Absolutely pathetic. Another similar experience I have with mobile sites is Reddit, its intentionally throttling the site and tries to turn you towards their app.