GraphQL Server vs REST API

Developers should use a GraphQL server when building applications that require complex data fetching from multiple sources, such as mobile apps, web dashboards, or microservices architectures meets developers should learn rest api when building web services, mobile backends, or integrating systems, as it provides a standardized, language-agnostic way to expose data and functionality over the internet. Here's our take.

GraphQL Server

Nice Pick

Developers should use a GraphQL server when building applications that require complex data fetching from multiple sources, such as mobile apps, web dashboards, or microservices architectures

Pros

• It is ideal for scenarios where clients have varying data requirements, as it enables precise queries and real-time updates via subscriptions, improving performance and developer experience
• Related to: graphql, apollo-server

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

REST API

Developers should learn REST API when building web services, mobile backends, or integrating systems, as it provides a standardized, language-agnostic way to expose data and functionality over the internet

Pros

• It's essential for creating scalable and maintainable applications, especially in microservices architectures or when developing public APIs for third-party use, such as in e-commerce or social media platforms
• Related to: http-protocol, json

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

These tools serve different purposes. GraphQL Server is a tool while REST API is a concept. We picked GraphQL Server based on overall popularity, but your choice depends on what you're building.

The Bottom Line

GraphQL Server wins

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