GraphQL Batching vs GraphQL Subscriptions

Developers should use GraphQL Batching when building applications that require fetching multiple pieces of data simultaneously, as it minimizes the number of round trips to the server, improving performance and user experience meets developers should use graphql subscriptions when building applications that require real-time functionality, such as messaging apps, live dashboards, or multiplayer games, to avoid inefficient polling and reduce latency. Here's our take.

GraphQL Batching

Nice Pick

Developers should use GraphQL Batching when building applications that require fetching multiple pieces of data simultaneously, as it minimizes the number of round trips to the server, improving performance and user experience

Pros

• It's especially beneficial in high-latency environments like mobile networks or when dealing with nested queries that would otherwise trigger multiple requests
• Related to: graphql, apollo-client

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

GraphQL Subscriptions

Developers should use GraphQL Subscriptions when building applications that require real-time functionality, such as messaging apps, live dashboards, or multiplayer games, to avoid inefficient polling and reduce latency

Pros

• They are essential in scenarios where data changes frequently and clients need instant updates without manual refreshes, enhancing user experience and system efficiency
• Related to: graphql, apollo-server

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

Use GraphQL Batching if: You want it's especially beneficial in high-latency environments like mobile networks or when dealing with nested queries that would otherwise trigger multiple requests and can live with specific tradeoffs depend on your use case.

Use GraphQL Subscriptions if: You prioritize they are essential in scenarios where data changes frequently and clients need instant updates without manual refreshes, enhancing user experience and system efficiency over what GraphQL Batching offers.

The Bottom Line

GraphQL Batching wins

Developers should use GraphQL Batching when building applications that require fetching multiple pieces of data simultaneously, as it minimizes the number of round trips to the server, improving performance and user experience