GraphQL vs REST: A Practical Comparison
Understand the differences between GraphQL and REST APIs with real examples and guidance on choosing the right approach.
The API Debate
GraphQL has gained massive popularity, but is it always better than REST? Let's compare objectively.
REST API
Pros:
- Simple and well-understood
- Great caching support
- Works with any HTTP client
Cons:
- Over-fetching data
- Multiple endpoints
- Versioning challenges
GraphQL
Pros:
- Request exactly what you need
- Single endpoint
- Strong typing
- Real-time with subscriptions
Cons:
- Caching complexity
- Learning curve
- Query complexity limits
When to Use Each
Choose REST for simple CRUD apps. Choose GraphQL for complex data requirements with multiple clients.