GraphQL.js vs Apollo Server

Developers should learn GraphQL meets developers should learn apollo server when building graphql apis for web or mobile applications, as it simplifies server-side implementation with built-in best practices and tooling. Here's our take.

GraphQL.js

Nice Pick

Developers should learn GraphQL

Pros

• js when building APIs that require flexible data retrieval, such as in modern web or mobile applications where clients need to request specific data fields to avoid over-fetching
• Related to: graphql, node-js

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

Apollo Server

Developers should learn Apollo Server when building GraphQL APIs for web or mobile applications, as it simplifies server-side implementation with built-in best practices and tooling

Pros

• It is particularly useful in scenarios requiring flexible data fetching, such as aggregating data from multiple microservices or databases, or when real-time updates via subscriptions are needed
• Related to: graphql, node-js

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

These tools serve different purposes. GraphQL.js is a library while Apollo Server is a framework. We picked GraphQL.js based on overall popularity, but your choice depends on what you're building.

The Bottom Line

GraphQL.js wins

Based on overall popularity. GraphQL.js is more widely used, but Apollo Server excels in its own space.