The API Landscape
REST has been the dominant API paradigm for 15+ years. GraphQL, created by Facebook in 2015, offers a different approach. Both have strengths and trade-offs.
REST: Simple and Proven
REST uses HTTP methods (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE) with URL-based resources. It's simple, well-understood, and works with caching, CDNs, and standard HTTP tools. Best for: CRUD operations, public APIs, microservices communication.
GraphQL: Flexible and Efficient
GraphQL lets clients request exactly the data they need in a single request. No over-fetching, no under-fetching. Best for: mobile apps (bandwidth-limited), complex data relationships, rapid frontend iteration.
Comparison
| Feature | REST | GraphQL |
|---|---|---|
| Data Fetching | Fixed endpoints, may over/under-fetch | Exact data requested |
| Caching | HTTP caching built-in | Requires client-side caching |
| Learning Curve | Low | Medium |
The Verdict
Choose REST for simple CRUD APIs, public APIs, and when you need HTTP caching. Choose GraphQL for complex data relationships, mobile apps, and when frontend teams need flexibility.