API technologies shape how apps communicate and fetch data. Two major players today are GraphQL and REST — both help clients and servers exchange data but in very different ways. Understanding their differences can help you choose the right tool for your next project.
What is REST?
REST (Representational State Transfer) is an architectural style for designing networked applications. It's been a standard for API design since the early 2000s. REST APIs organize data as resources, each accessible through different URL endpoints.
For example, you might get user data by requesting:
What is GraphQL?
GraphQL, developed by Facebook in 2012, is a query language for APIs. Unlike REST, GraphQL exposes a single endpoint:
GraphQL Query Example
Suppose you want to fetch a user’s name and list of their recent posts including post titles.
This query asks the server precisely for the user’s name and their first 3 post titles in one request. The server responds with only the requested data.Equivalent REST API Requests
In REST, you might need 2 separate requests:
1- Get user data:
Response includes user info including name.
2-Get user posts limited to 3:
Response includes a list of posts.Key Differences Between GraphQL and REST
| Aspect | REST APIs | GraphQL APIs |
|---|---|---|
| Endpoints | Multiple endpoints for each resource | Single endpoint for all operations |
| Data fetched | Fixed structure; may over-fetch or under-fetch | Client specifies exactly what fields to fetch |
| Operations | Use HTTP verbs (GET, POST, etc.) | Queries, mutations, and subscriptions |
| Data flexibility | Less flexible, rigid response structures | Highly flexible, tailored responses |
| Real-time updates | Typically via polling | Supports real-time via subscriptions |
| Versioning | Versioning in URLs (e.g., /v1/users) | No versioning needed; schema evolves continuously |
Why Choose GraphQL?
- Efficient data fetching: No more over-fetching or under-fetching data.
- Single request flexibility: Get all related data in one request instead of multiple calls.
- Strongly typed schema: Both frontend and backend know exactly data shape.
- Real-time capabilities: Built-in subscriptions for real-time updates
Why Choose REST?
- Simplicity: Easy to design and use, especially for small or straightforward APIs.
- Caching: HTTP caching mechanisms integrate well.
- Mature ecosystem: Well-established libraries, tools, and community support.
- Clear resource boundaries: Natural mapping to CRUD operations on distinct resources
When to Use Each?
- Use GraphQL if your app needs flexible and efficient data querying, handles complex data relationships, or requires real-time updates.
- Use REST if your application is simple, you want to leverage existing HTTP features, or prefer a clear, straightforward API structure.
Conclusion
GraphQL is not meant to replace REST entirely but offers a powerful alternative addressing some REST limitations. Both can coexist, and understanding their strengths helps you build scalable, performant APIs tailored to your app’s needs.