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WordPress REST API vs Custom PHP Endpoints

Developers should learn the WordPress REST API when building mobile apps, single-page applications (SPAs), or integrating WordPress with external services, as it provides a standardized way to access site data without relying on PHP templates meets developers should learn and use custom php endpoints when building web applications that require specialized server-side logic not covered by existing frameworks or cms plugins, such as for legacy system integrations, performance-critical operations, or proprietary data handling. Here's our take.

🧊Nice Pick

WordPress REST API

Developers should learn the WordPress REST API when building mobile apps, single-page applications (SPAs), or integrating WordPress with external services, as it provides a standardized way to access site data without relying on PHP templates

WordPress REST API

Nice Pick

Developers should learn the WordPress REST API when building mobile apps, single-page applications (SPAs), or integrating WordPress with external services, as it provides a standardized way to access site data without relying on PHP templates

Pros

  • +It's essential for creating headless WordPress setups where the front-end is built with modern JavaScript frameworks like React or Vue
  • +Related to: wordpress, javascript

Cons

  • -Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

Custom PHP Endpoints

Developers should learn and use custom PHP endpoints when building web applications that require specialized server-side logic not covered by existing frameworks or CMS plugins, such as for legacy system integrations, performance-critical operations, or proprietary data handling

Pros

  • +They are particularly useful in scenarios where full control over request/response cycles is needed, like in microservices, custom APIs for mobile apps, or when maintaining older PHP-based systems without migrating to modern frameworks
  • +Related to: php, rest-api

Cons

  • -Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

These tools serve different purposes. WordPress REST API is a platform while Custom PHP Endpoints is a concept. We picked WordPress REST API based on overall popularity, but your choice depends on what you're building.

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The Bottom Line
WordPress REST API wins

Based on overall popularity. WordPress REST API is more widely used, but Custom PHP Endpoints excels in its own space.

Learn about WordPress REST API →Learn about Custom PHP Endpoints →

Disagree with our pick? nice@nicepick.dev