Polling vs GraphQL Subscriptions
Developers should use polling when building applications that require real-time or near-real-time updates but where server-push technologies like WebSockets are not feasible or necessary, such as in simple dashboards, status monitors, or legacy systems 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.
Polling
Developers should use polling when building applications that require real-time or near-real-time updates but where server-push technologies like WebSockets are not feasible or necessary, such as in simple dashboards, status monitors, or legacy systems
Polling
Nice PickDevelopers should use polling when building applications that require real-time or near-real-time updates but where server-push technologies like WebSockets are not feasible or necessary, such as in simple dashboards, status monitors, or legacy systems
Pros
- +It is suitable for low-frequency updates or scenarios with limited server resources, as it avoids the complexity of maintaining persistent connections, though it may not be optimal for high-frequency or latency-sensitive applications
- +Related to: websockets, server-sent-events
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 Polling if: You want it is suitable for low-frequency updates or scenarios with limited server resources, as it avoids the complexity of maintaining persistent connections, though it may not be optimal for high-frequency or latency-sensitive applications 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 Polling offers.
Developers should use polling when building applications that require real-time or near-real-time updates but where server-push technologies like WebSockets are not feasible or necessary, such as in simple dashboards, status monitors, or legacy systems
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