REST Polling vs GraphQL Subscriptions

Developers should use REST Polling when building applications that need to synchronize data with a server but lack support for real-time push mechanisms like WebSockets or Server-Sent Events (SSE) 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.

REST Polling

Nice Pick

Developers should use REST Polling when building applications that need to synchronize data with a server but lack support for real-time push mechanisms like WebSockets or Server-Sent Events (SSE)

Pros

• It's suitable for low-frequency updates, such as checking for new notifications every few minutes, or in environments where firewalls or legacy systems restrict other methods
• Related to: rest-api, http-protocol

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 REST Polling if: You want it's suitable for low-frequency updates, such as checking for new notifications every few minutes, or in environments where firewalls or legacy systems restrict other methods 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 REST Polling offers.

The Bottom Line

REST Polling wins

Developers should use REST Polling when building applications that need to synchronize data with a server but lack support for real-time push mechanisms like WebSockets or Server-Sent Events (SSE)